Comparing the effects of retention or resection of the Denonvilliers' fascia on urinary and sexual functions in men who underwent laparoscopic radical

Currently, colorectal cancer has the third highest incidence worldwide. As its incidence is increasing, focus on quality of life after laparoscopic radical resection for colorectal cancer has also increased. This study aimed to compare the effects of retention or resection of the Denonvilliers'fascia on urinary and sexual functions in men who underwent laparoscopic radical resection for rectal cancer. Relevant national and international literature databases, including China Knowledge Network, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Excerpta Medica Database, were searched according to the established retrieval scheme. Review Manager 5.3 was used to analyze data, and the correct effect model was selected based on heterogeneity. In total, 22 studies involving 2255 patients were included in the meta-analysis. The studies were categorized into the experimental and control groups. The incidence of urinary dysfunction was lower in the experimental group than in the control group at 1 and 6 months postoperatively. In terms of sexual function, the experimental group had lower rates of erectile and ejaculatory dysfunctions than the control group at 1, 3, and 6 months and 1 year postoperatively. However, the experimental group had a longer operation time than the control group. No significant differences in incidence of postoperative complications, intra-operative blood loss, and number of lymph nodes dissections were observed between the two groups. Overall, laparoscopic radical resection for rectal cancer with preservation of the Denonvilliers' fascia has been proven effective in improving postoperative urinary and sexual functions in men without affecting the number of lymph nodes dissected and enhancing postoperative quality of life.