“Preoperative Assessment and Intervention: Optimizing Outcomes for Early Return of Urinary Continence and Erectile Function”

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and erectile dysfunction (ED) are common complications following radical prostatectomy (RP). Although these complications cannot be completely avoided by urologists, the complication rate can be reduced. This can be done with perioperative assessment and training. Age can take a toll on urinary symptoms and function, and preoperative understanding and evaluation can reduce such symptoms postoperatively. SUI is the most common urinary complaint post-radical prostatectomy and is most likely caused by direct injury to the urinary sphincter. Erectile dysfunction is caused by temporary hypoxia from nerves damaged during surgery. An understanding of the anatomy and physiology of these processes has reduced complications for patient. Furthermore, the advancements in surgical technique have also reduced SUI and ED associated complications.