The long-term outcome in men with exstrophy/epispadias: sexual function and social integration.

PURPOSE: We evaluated the long-term outcome of social integration and sexual function in 29 men with bladder exstrophy and epispadias.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Four men with epispadias and 25 with bladder exstrophy were available for long-term followup. Patients were interviewed by telephone regarding sexual history and social integration. Semen analyses were obtained in 8 cases.

RESULTS

Patient assessment of genital appearance was good or fair in 71%. Potency was present in all patients, and erections were straight in 66% and curved in 34% with no curvature so severe as to prevent sexual intercourse. Semen analysis showed a normal sperm count in 63% of the men and no azoospermia. Social integration was satisfactory: 100% of the men attended high school, 55% have a college education and all who are not attending school have full-time jobs.

CONCLUSIONS

Our long-term review demonstrates that despite what appears to be a significant sexual handicap, patients with exstrophy/epispadias can have adequate sexual function and overall successful social integration.