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The Impact of Perianal Disease on Patient's Sex Life
Sponsor: AHEPA University Hospital
Summary
Perianal diseases, such as perianal abcesses, anal fistulae and perianal Crohn's disease, are often associated with significant physical symptoms, including pain and chronic drainage. However, the impact of these conditions on a patient's personal life, intimacy, and body image-often referred to as "hidden morbidity"-is frequently overlooked in clinical practice. The purpose of this prospective observational study is to evaluate the psychosexual burden in patients suffering from chronic perianal disease. Using validated tools (IIEF-5 for men, FSFI-6 for women) and a specialized Supplemental Patient-Reported Outcome Measure (PROM), researchers will investigate how the presence of surgical devices (such as setons), disease etiology, and clinical symptoms affect sexual function and self-esteem. The study also aims to identify gaps in physician-patient communication regarding sexual health. By quantifying these impacts, the study seeks to promote a more holistic, patient-centered approach to the surgical management of perianal conditions.
Official title: The "Hidden Morbidity" of Perianal Disease: A Prospective Evaluation of Psychosexual Health and Body Image.
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - Any
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
60
Start Date
2026-03-31
Completion Date
2026-06-20
Last Updated
2026-04-09
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Patient Reported Outcome Assessment (Questionnaires)
A one-time administration of a standardized psychosexual assessment battery. This includes the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) for males, the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI-6) for females, and a 10-item supplemental Patient-Reported Outcome Measure (PROM) specifically designed to evaluate body-esteem and intimacy interference in perianal disease.
Locations (1)
AHEPA University General Hospital
Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece