Sexual rehabilitation for cardiac patients with erectile dysfunction: a randomised clinical trial

Global prevalence of sexual dysfunction in cardiovascular patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Sexual dysfunction poses a significant challenge for patients with cardiac conditions. Concerning the prevalence of sexual disorders in cardiovascular patients, several seminal studies conducted in various regions of the world have provided diverse facts and figures pertaining to sexual dysfunction among cardiovascular patients. Therefore, the present study aimed to analyze, summarize, and integrate the findings of seminal studies on the effect of underlying factors and estimate the global rate of sexual disorders in cardiovascular patients.

METHODS

The present systematic review and meta-analysis included studies conducted in 2003-2023. To find the relevant published academic papers, SID, MagIran, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science (WOS), and Google Scholar databases were searched for keywords using MeSH/Emtree until January 14, 2023. The GRADEpro software was used to evaluate the quality of evidence. The heterogeneity of studies was checked using the I2 index.

RESULTS

An initial number of 2122 studies were found in the first search. Following a precise screening process based on predefined inclusion criteria, a total of 17 studies were deemed suitable for inclusion in the meta-analysis. The global prevalence of sexual disorders in cardiovascular patients was estimated at 62.6% (95% CI: 49.8-73.8%). As the results of the meta-regression showed that as the sample size increased, there was a significant decrease in the overall prevalence of sexual disorders among cardiovascular patients. Additionally, as the study years progressed, both age and JBI score exhibited an upward trend.

CONCLUSION

The present findings showed a high prevalence of sexual disorders among cardiovascular patients. Therefore, it is recommended that experts and health policymakers enhance their focus on effectively preventing and controlling these disorders. Besides the evidence achieved very low certainty, it is important for the treatment team to prioritize the sexual relations of cardiovascular patients and focus on improving their sexual function. This should be seen as an essential aspect of their overall recovery process.

Virtual Reality-Based Exercise Rehabilitation in Cancer-Related Dysfunctions: Scoping Review

BACKGROUND

Virtual reality-based exercise rehabilitation (VRER) is a promising intervention for patients with cancer-related dysfunctions (CRDs). However, studies focusing on VRER for CRDs are lacking, and the results are inconsistent.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to review the application of VRER in patients with CRDs.

METHODS

This scoping review was conducted following the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) checklist framework. Publications were included from the time of database establishment to October 14, 2023. The databases were PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane, Web of Science, ProQuest, arXiv, IEEE Xplore, MedRxiv, CNKI, Wanfang Data, VIP, and SinoMed. The population included patients with cancer. A virtual reality (VR) system or device was required to be provided in exercise rehabilitation as an intervention. Eligible studies focused on VRER used for CRDs. Study selection and data extraction were performed by 2 reviewers independently. Extracted data included authors, year, country, study type, groups, sample size, participant age, cancer type, existing or potential CRDs, VR models and devices, intervention programs and durations, effectiveness, compliance, satisfaction, and safety.

RESULTS

We identified 25 articles, and among these, 12 (48%) were randomized clinical trials, 11 (44%) were other experimental studies, and 2 (8%) were observational studies. The total sample size was 1174 (range 6-136). Among the 25 studies, 22 (88%), 2 (8%), and 1 (4%) included nonimmersive VR, immersive VR, and augmented reality, respectively, which are models of VRER. Commercial game programs (17/25, 68%) were the most popular interventions of VRER, and their duration ranged from 3 to 12 weeks. Using these models and devices, VRER was mostly applied in patients with breast cancer (14/25, 56%), leukemia (8/25, 32%), and lung cancer (3/25, 12%). Furthermore, 6 CRDs were intervened by VRER, and among these, postmastectomy syndromes were the most common (10/25, 40%). Overall, 74% (17/23) of studies reported positive results, including significant improvements in limb function, joint range of motion, edema rates, cognition, respiratory disturbance index, apnea, activities of daily living, and quality of life. The compliance rate ranged from 56% to 100%. Overall, 32% (8/25) of studies reported on patient satisfaction, and of these, 88% (7/8) reported satisfaction with VRER. Moreover, 13% (1/8) reported mild sickness as an adverse event.

CONCLUSIONS

We found that around half of the studies reported using VRER in patients with breast cancer and postmastectomy dysfunctions through nonimmersive models and commercial game programs having durations of 3-12 weeks. In addition, most studies showed that VRER was effective owing to virtualization and interaction. Therefore, VRER may be an alternate intervention for patients with CRDs. However, as the conclusions were drawn from data with acknowledged inconsistencies and limited satisfaction reports, studies with larger sample sizes and more outcome indictors are required.

A Systematic Review on the Relationship Between Physical Activity and Sexual Function in Adults

Sexual function is a vital component of overall well-being and quality of life. Physical activity is known to have a profound influence on various aspects of health, but its impact on sexual function in the general population remains an under-explored area. This systematic review seeks to thoroughly examine existing evidence, aiming to establish the correlation between physical activity and sexual function in both male and female adults. We conducted a comprehensive search of electronic databases and relevant sources, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Eligible studies were those that investigated the effects of physical activity on sexual function using the International Index of Erectile Dysfunction (IIEF-5) questionnaire and the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). Quality assessment was performed on the included studies, and the findings were synthesized through qualitative analysis. The review identified 12 randomized controlled trials, primarily focusing on males, with interventions ranging from home-based walking to structured exercise training. Only two studies were conducted among females. The most recommended exercise was aerobic exercise. Consistent aerobic exercise proves to be a hopeful and efficient non-drug intervention for enhancing erectile function in men. However, when considering the effects of physical exercise programs on sexual function and the quality of sexual life of females, the results present challenges in drawing clear conclusions. Health policymakers play an important role in providing guidelines and recommendations to healthcare professionals, encouraging them to prescribe exercise as a preferable alternative to pharmacological treatments for enhancing sexual functions in both men and women.

Effect of aerobic exercise on erectile function: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

The health benefits of regular aerobic exercise are well established, although there is limited high-quality evidence regarding its impact on erectile function.

AIM

To determine the effect of aerobic exercise on erectile function in men and to identify factors that may influence this effect.

METHODS

This systematic review and meta-analysis included randomized controlled trials that evaluated the effects of aerobic exercise on erectile function via the Erectile Function domain of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-EF). The mean difference in IIEF-EF scores between the aerobic exercise and nonexercising control groups was estimated by a random-effects meta-analysis. Meta-regression was used to evaluate the association of moderator variables on meta-analysis results.

OUTCOMES

The IIEF-EF score is reported on a 6-30 scale, with higher values indicating better erectile function.

RESULTS

Among 11 randomized controlled trials included in the analysis, aerobic exercise resulted in statistically significant improvements in IIEF-EF scores as compared with controls, with a mean difference of 2.8 points (95% CI, 1.7-3.9; P < .001) and moderate heterogeneity among studies (I2 = 53%). The effect of aerobic exercise on erectile function was greater in men with lower baseline IIEF-EF scores, with improvements of 2.3, 3.3, and 4.9 points for mild, moderate, and severe erectile dysfunction, respectively (P = .02). The meta-analysis results were not influenced by publication bias or individual study effects.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Health care providers should consider recommending regular aerobic exercise as a low-risk nonpharmacologic therapy for men experiencing erectile difficulties.

STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS

The primary strength of this review was the generation of level 1 evidence on a topic of general interest regarding sexual health in men. However, the included studies evaluated diverse groups, which may complicate data interpretation for specific segments of the population.

CONCLUSION

Regular aerobic exercise can improve the erectile function of men, particularly those with lower baseline IIEF-EF scores.

2023 AHA/ACC/ACCP/ASPC/NLA/PCNA Guideline for the Management of Patients With Chronic Coronary Disease: A Report of the American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology Joint Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines

AIM

The "2023 AHA/ACC/ACCP/ASPC/NLA/PCNA Guideline for the Management of Patients With Chronic Coronary Disease" provides an update to and consolidates new evidence since the "2012 ACCF/AHA/ACP/AATS/PCNA/SCAI/STS Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Patients With Stable Ischemic Heart Disease" and the corresponding "2014 ACC/AHA/AATS/PCNA/SCAI/STS Focused Update of the Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Patients With Stable Ischemic Heart Disease."

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was conducted from September 2021 to May 2022. Clinical studies, systematic reviews and meta-analyses, and other evidence conducted on human participants were identified that were published in English from MEDLINE (through PubMed), EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, and other selected databases relevant to this guideline.

STRUCTURE

This guideline provides an evidenced-based and patient-centered approach to management of patients with chronic coronary disease, considering social determinants of health and incorporating the principles of shared decision-making and team-based care. Relevant topics include general approaches to treatment decisions, guideline-directed management and therapy to reduce symptoms and future cardiovascular events, decision-making pertaining to revascularization in patients with chronic coronary disease, recommendations for management in special populations, patient follow-up and monitoring, evidence gaps, and areas in need of future research. Where applicable, and based on availability of cost-effectiveness data, cost-value recommendations are also provided for clinicians. Many recommendations from previously published guidelines have been updated with new evidence, and new recommendations have been created when supported by published data.

2023 AHA/ACC/ACCP/ASPC/NLA/PCNA Guideline for the Management of Patients With Chronic Coronary Disease: A Report of the American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology Joint Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines

AIM

The "2023 AHA/ACC/ACCP/ASPC/NLA/PCNA Guideline for the Management of Patients With Chronic Coronary Disease" provides an update to and consolidates new evidence since the "2012 ACCF/AHA/ACP/AATS/PCNA/SCAI/STS Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Patients With Stable Ischemic Heart Disease" and the corresponding "2014 ACC/AHA/AATS/PCNA/SCAI/STS Focused Update of the Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Patients With Stable Ischemic Heart Disease."

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was conducted from September 2021 to May 2022. Clinical studies, systematic reviews and meta-analyses, and other evidence conducted on human participants were identified that were published in English from MEDLINE (through PubMed), EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, and other selected databases relevant to this guideline.

STRUCTURE

This guideline provides an evidenced-based and patient-centered approach to management of patients with chronic coronary disease, considering social determinants of health and incorporating the principles of shared decision-making and team-based care. Relevant topics include general approaches to treatment decisions, guideline-directed management and therapy to reduce symptoms and future cardiovascular events, decision-making pertaining to revascularization in patients with chronic coronary disease, recommendations for management in special populations, patient follow-up and monitoring, evidence gaps, and areas in need of future research. Where applicable, and based on availability of cost-effectiveness data, cost-value recommendations are also provided for clinicians. Many recommendations from previously published guidelines have been updated with new evidence, and new recommendations have been created when supported by published data.

Effects of Sexual Rehabilitation on Sexual Dysfunction in Patients with Cardiovascular Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

PURPOSE

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is one of the leading causes of death, accounting for one-third of all deaths worldwide. Patients with CVD are three times more likely to complain of sexual dysfunction than healthy people. Causes of sexual dysfunction in patients with CVD include physical/mental changes and drug side effects. The prevalence of sexual dysfunction in patients with CVD has been estimated to be up to 89%. Ordinary treatments such as pharmacotherapy cannot effectively reduce sexual problems. Therefore, sexual rehabilitation has a broad spectrum, including exercise therapy such as pelvic floor muscle treatment, appropriate counseling, a multidisciplinary approach, and partner rehabilitation. In this study, systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to investigate the effect of sexual rehabilitation on sexual problems in patients with CVD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Comprehensive literature searches were conducted using MEDLINE, Cochrane Library electronic database, and EMBASE through June 2022. Questionnaire scores at the end point as outcomes of the study were recorded as were standardized mean difference (SMD) with their 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Meta-regression analysis was conducted for each moderator. We performed a risk of bias evaluation for included studies using the RoB 2 tool.

RESULTS

The overall SMD in the meta-analysis for sexual rehabilitation versus no-sexual rehabilitation was 0.430 (95% CI, 0.226-0.633). There was a statistical difference between groups. SMD changes were 0.674 (95% CI, 0.308-1.039) at one month and 0.320 (95% CI, 0.074-0.565) at six months. The regression analysis with all variables (number of patients, study duration, and questionnaire types) revealed no significance.

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicates that sexual rehabilitation is an effective method with high therapeutic potential for sexual dysfunction of patients with CVD. However, for clinical application, well-designed studies with many patients should be conducted in the future and the standardization of rehabilitation protocols is required.

Effectiveness of Physiotherapy Interventions in the Management Male Sexual Dysfunction: A Systematic Review

Background

Male sexual dysfunction is a common disorder with consequential implications. Hitherto, treatment was based on pharmacological approach which has yielded little success in sustainability and produced attendant complications including overweight/obesity, and cardiovascular problems. Hence, the paradigm is toward non-pharmacological approach, but their efficacy is yet to be summarized for clinical practice. This study summarized efficacy of physiotherapy for male sexual dysfunction to inform clinical decision-making and practice.

Methodology

Electronic search of clinical trials on PubMed, Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), Cochrane Central, Scopus, and Google Scholar was conducted covering from inception till July 2021 using words, such as male sexual dysfunction and physiotherapy and further refined to erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, exercises, electrical stimulation, biofeedback. Search strategy included expansion via medical subject headings (MeSH) and truncation of keywords. Boolean operators "AND" and "OR" were utilized.

Results

Out of 239 studies, 13 eligible ones were included in this study. Outcome measures used were full/abridged versions of International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF/IIEF-5), Manometric, or digital anal pressure measurement. Eleven studies were on erectile dysfunction/erectile dysfunction with climacturia and two on premature ejaculation. Physiotherapy was for 6-12 weeks covering 9-20 sessions. Physiotherapy used was standalone/combinations of pelvic floor muscle exercises, electrical stimulation, or biofeedback. PEDro scores of the studies were 4-9/10. Studies involved 912 participants (472/440 intervention/control) between 19 and 83 years with erectile dysfunction lasting 6-360 months. There was significant (0.0001 ≤ p ≤ .05) improvement in sexual function (interventions > controls). Nothing determines the efficacy of physiotherapy or choice of approach.

Conclusion

Physiotherapy is an effective non-pharmacological treatment approach for male sexual dysfunction.

The effect of sexual counseling on depression, anxiety, stress, sexual knowledge and sexual quality of life in men who have undergone invasive coronary interventions: An RCT

Background

Sexual dysfunctions are common in men with ischemic heart disease, especially in men undergoing therapeutic interventions.

Objective

This study intended to assess the effect of counseling on depression, anxiety, stress, sexual knowledge and sexual quality of life in men after invasive coronary interventions in the post catheterization department of Kashan Shahid Beheshti Hospital during 2018.

Materials and Methods

The study population consisted of 54 male participants who had undergone an invasive coronary intervention. The intervention group received counseling and the control group underwent the standard ward routine. Data were collected using the depression anxiety stress scales, Abraham's sexual quality of life, and the Yi-Hung Sexual Knowledge questionnaires before discharge and also two months later.

Results

Within two months, the intervention group's mean score of sexual knowledge significantly increased, compared with the control group, from 12.37 to 14.81 (p ≤ 0.001). The intervention group's mean score of sexual quality of life also significantly increased, compared with the control group, from 48.2 to 60.7 (p ≤ 0.001). Moreover, the mean anxiety score changed in the intervention group from 11.18 to 5.25, again a significant difference compared with the control group (p = 0.01). But, the differences in the depression and stress scores were not significant.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that sexual counseling may improve sexual knowledge, sexual quality of life and anxiety in men following invasive coronary intervention, but might not reduce their stress or depression. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Alternative medicine and herbal remedies in the treatment of erectile dysfunction: A systematic review

Objectives: To systematically review and discuss the current evidence from placebo-controlled clinical trials that investigated the use of alternative medicines and herbal remedies in the management of erectile dysfunction (ED). Methods: A Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA)-based systematic review using specific keyword combinations was conducted on the PubMed and Scopus databases. Randomised controlled trials investigating herbal medicine in at least one group and using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) as an outcome in patients primarily diagnosed with ED were included for review. Results: Following the literature search, screening and eligibility analysis, a total of 42 articles were included. The 42 articles were categorised as single herb extractions (n = 14), combination herbal formula (n = 5), combination of herbal formula and non-herbal nutraceuticals (n = 7), non-herbal nutraceuticals (n = 5), acupuncture and moxibustion (n = 2), diet and nutrition (n = 3), exercise (n = 5), and topical treatments (n = 1). Based on the results, Korean ginseng, Pygnogenol and Prelox, Tribulus terrestris, Lepidium meyenii, L-arginine, acupuncture and lifestyle interventions were the more predominantly investigated treatments interventions for ED. Conclusions: Panax ginseng, Pygnogenol, Prelox and Tribulus terrestris have promising evidence as herbal products, alongside L-arginine as a nutritional supplement, for ED based on IIEF outcomes, and warrant further clinical investigation. The mechanisms of action remain unclear, but each of these appears to in part increase nitric oxide synthesis. Importantly, improved diet and exercise should be considered, particularly in patients with obesity or diabetes mellitus.

Patient and Partner Sexual Concerns During the First Year After an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator: A Secondary Analysis of the P+P Randomized Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND

Sexual concerns and changes in sexual activity are common among patients and their intimate partners after an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD).

AIMS

Our aims were to (i) describe patient and partner sexual activity and related concerns from the time of an initial ICD implant through 12-month follow-up and (ii) identify factors predictive of return to sexual activity and fears associated with sexual activity.

METHODS

This secondary descriptive analysis was conducted with data from a randomized controlled trial (2009-2015) designed to compare 2 interventions for patients (Patient-Only) and for patients and their partners (Patient+Partner) after implant of an initial ICD. The sample included 105 patients and their intimate partners who reported sexual activity during the 24 months before ICD implant.

OUTCOMES

The Sexual Concerns Inventory was used to assess sexual activity and related concerns.

RESULTS

Study participants comprised 72% male and were of mean age 65.6 ± 10.6 years; partners comprised 64% female and were of mean age 63 ± 11.6 years. Sexual activity increased after ICD: 73% of patients reported no sexual intercourse during 2 months before study enrollment, whereas only 46% reported no sexual intercourse during the 2 months before 12-month follow-up. Reductions in sexual concerns were evident 1 month after implant, with continued reductions through 12 months (patient 6.48 ± 4.03 to 5.22 ± 3.38, P = .004; partner 6.93 ± 4.01 to 5.2 ± 3.56, P < .001). Patient physical health predicted sexual activity 3 months after implant placement (P = .04); general ICD concerns (P < .001) predicted patient ICD-related sexual fears at 3 months. At 12 months, baseline general ICD concerns (P < .02) predicted sexual fears.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

ICD patients and partners report low levels of sexual activity at the time of initial ICD implant, with reported increases in sexual activity over the 12-month recovery period: Sexual concerns were highest immediately after ICD implant.

STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS

Notably, the major strengths of this study were the repeated measures and longitudinal study design; the main limitation of the study was the lack of a "usual care" control group.

CONCLUSION

Sexual activity at the time of an initial ICD implant is low, and sexual concerns are most prominent for both patients and partners immediately after implant placement. Baseline physical health predicts subsequent sexual activity at 3 months, while general ICD-related worry predicts sexual fears at 3 and 12 months. Streur MM, Rosman LA, Sears SF, et al. Patient and Partner Sexual Concerns During the First Year After an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator: A Secondary Analysis of the P+P Randomized Clinical Trial. J Sex Med 2020;17:892-902.

A place of understanding: Patients' lived experiences of participating in a sexual rehabilitation programme after heart disease

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

The aim of this project was to explore the lived experience of participating in a nonpharmacological sexual rehabilitation programme.

BACKGROUND

In the healthcare system, patients are important stakeholders, and their experience and knowledge are essential to include when evaluating rehabilitation programmes. Patient experiences with participating in sexual rehabilitation for cardiovascular patients have not yet been investigated.

METHODS

Ten qualitative interviews were conducted with male patients from a randomised controlled trial investigating the effect of a 12-week rehabilitation programme focusing on sexuality. The analysis was inspired by Paul Ricoeur's theory of interpretation. Analysis consisted of three levels: (i) naive reading, (ii) structural analysis and (iii) critical interpretation and discussion. The theoretical framework reflects aspects of behavioural theory of social cognitive theory developed by Albert Bandura and his concept of self-efficacy.

RESULTS

The findings are presented as themes extracted from the structural analysis and interpreted in the critical interpretation and express the way in which cardiovascular patients experience participating in a sexual rehabilitation programme. Three themes were identified reflecting the intervention to be a special place of understanding, describing the intervention as a supporting atmosphere and finally expressing the intervention as empowering sexuality.

CONCLUSIONS

Participating in the sexual rehabilitation programme was experienced as efficient, valuable, motivating and safe, but dependent on a professional setting. The intervention developed participants' self-efficacy with regard to their sexual performance and relationship.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

The findings highlight the importance of a professional setting including certain competencies such as humour and professional skills when handling the after-care of cardiovascular patients with sexual problems.