Do you counsel young patients on infertility risks following HO prophylaxis with RT?

Yes, we do counsel. We also use scrotal 'clamp-shell' blocking. We also block the ovaries. We advise, as we do for other patients who receive RT close to genital areas, that they should avoid child bearing for 6-12 months.

The original emailed poll question said, "How long do you advise patients to refrain from unprotected sex following RT for HO prophylaxis? " In terms of intercourse in and of itself, I do not give any restrictions.

But after answering the poll, the main question changes to "Do you counsel young pati...

I agree with the answers put forth. A clamshell might be difficult given the bandaging when RT is given postoperatively, but at the very least, holding off on childbearing for at least 6 months is recommended.