Our Summary

This study explores the relationship between visceral obesity (fat stored deep in the abdomen) and malnutrition in patients with rectal cancer. The researchers divided 624 patients into four groups based on whether they were well-nourished or malnourished and whether they had visceral obesity or not. They found that patients who were both malnourished and had visceral obesity had higher rates of complications after surgery and higher mortality rates. These patients also had a worse prognosis (predicted outcome of the disease). Other factors that affected the patients’ outcomes included age, overall health, tumor characteristics, and the presence of other diseases. The findings suggest that a combination of malnutrition and visceral obesity can be a useful indicator of rectal cancer patients’ health and prognosis.

FAQs

  1. What is the relationship between visceral obesity and malnutrition in patients with rectal cancer?
  2. What factors were found to affect the outcomes of rectal cancer patients in the study?
  3. How does a combination of malnutrition and visceral obesity influence the health and prognosis of rectal cancer patients?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about proctectomy is to maintain a healthy diet and weight before and after surgery to improve outcomes and reduce complications. This includes ensuring adequate nutrition and avoiding excessive visceral obesity, as this can impact the success of the procedure and overall health outcomes. It is important to work with a healthcare provider or nutritionist to create a balanced diet plan that supports healing and recovery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended proctectomy include those with rectal cancer who are well-nourished and do not have visceral obesity. However, patients who are malnourished and have visceral obesity may also undergo proctectomy, but they may have higher rates of complications and mortality. It is important for healthcare providers to consider these factors when determining the best course of treatment for rectal cancer patients.

Timeline

Before proctectomy:

  1. Patient is diagnosed with rectal cancer and undergoes various tests and evaluations to determine the stage and extent of the cancer.
  2. Patient may undergo preoperative treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy to shrink the tumor before surgery.
  3. Patient meets with a surgeon to discuss the proctectomy procedure and potential risks and benefits.
  4. Patient undergoes preoperative preparations such as bowel preparation and fasting.

After proctectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes surgery to remove the rectum and surrounding tissues.
  2. Patient may experience pain, discomfort, and temporary changes in bowel function after surgery.
  3. Patient is monitored closely for complications such as infection, bleeding, or bowel obstruction.
  4. Patient may need to follow a special diet or make lifestyle changes to aid in recovery and prevent complications.
  5. Patient undergoes follow-up appointments with the surgical team to monitor healing and recovery.
  6. Patient may undergo adjuvant treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy to further treat the cancer.
  7. Patient undergoes regular surveillance tests to monitor for recurrence of the cancer.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is a proctectomy and why is it recommended for my condition?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with a proctectomy?
  3. How will a proctectomy affect my quality of life, including bowel function and continence?
  4. What is the expected recovery time after a proctectomy?
  5. Are there alternative treatment options to a proctectomy that I should consider?
  6. How will my nutritional status be monitored before and after the surgery?
  7. How can I optimize my nutrition before and after the proctectomy to improve my outcomes?
  8. Will I need any additional support or resources, such as a dietitian or nutritionist, to help manage my nutritional needs?
  9. How will my visceral obesity impact the surgical procedure and my recovery?
  10. What are the implications of the study’s findings on the relationship between visceral obesity, malnutrition, and outcomes for patients undergoing a proctectomy?

Reference

Authors: Zhou CJ, Lin Y, Liu JY, Wang ZL, Chen XY, Zheng CG. Journal: BMC Cancer. 2023 Jun 22;23(1):576. doi: 10.1186/s12885-023-11083-y. PMID: 37349711