Denton2
Weak evidence only for the use of hyperbaric oxygen for the physical aspects of sexual dysfunction in women following pelvic radiotherapy
Citation:Denton AS, Maher J. Interventions for the physical aspects of sexual dysfunction in women following pelvic radiotherapy. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2003, Issue 1. Art. No.: CD003750. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD003750. Accessed 03 January 2023.
Author: Arshi Denton arshidenton@blueyonder.co.uk
Background
Following pelvic radiotherapy (RT), a proportion of women experience problems related to sexual function, which are multifactorial in origin. The physical components relate to distortion of the perineum and vagina, which may occur as a result of surgery and/or radiotherapy and compromise sexual activity resulting in considerable distress.HBOT has been suggested as a useful treatment.
Objectives
The aim of this review was to evaluate the evidence for treatment options addressing the physical components of sexual dysfunction arising from pelvic radiotherapy as prevention or treatment of acute or late complications.
Search methods
The concepts used included synonyms for radiation therapy and brachytherapy and synonyms for the spectrum of physical aspects of sexual dysfunction in women and randomized. We searched the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register (CENTRAL), Issue 1, 2002, MEDLINE 1966 to 2002, EMBASE 1980 to 2002, CANCERCD 1980 to 2002, Science Citation Index 1991 to 2002, CINAHL 1982 to 2002, as well as sources of grey literature. We also hand searched relevant textbooks and contacted experts in the field.
Selection criteria
Any study describing the therapeutic trial of a treatment to relieve the physical aspects of female sexual dysfunction which had developed following pelvic radiotherapy was considered. The quality of each study was then assessed by two reviewers independently to determine its suitability for inclusion in statistical analysis.
Data collection and analysis
Thirty‐two references met the inclusion criteria for the search but of these only four were suitable to be included for statistical analysis.
Main results for HBOT
The value of hyperbaric oxygen therapy is supported by weaker grade IIIC evidence in the form of case series only.
Authors' conclusions
These findings reflect the need for more studies to be conducted with improved designs to clarify the investigative process and support the final result.
Review by: Michael Bennett m.bennett@unsw.edu.au
03/01/2023
Delete or review by: January 2030
