Nerve-Sparing Surgeries

Nerve-Sparing Surgeries

Some cancer surgeries involve the removal of lymph nodes in the abdomen (retroperitoneal lymph node dissection [RPLND]), and these surgeries can damage the nerves involved in ejaculation. While this does not cause a man to be infertile, it does mean that, when ready to attempt pregnancy, sperm has to be retrieved in other ways. Nerve-sparing RPLND techniques should be discussed with appropriate patients, especially those interested in future fertility. Patients should also be offered sperm banking before treatment.