Our Summary

This research paper is about a study that looked at the effects of a certain kind of surgery for a bowel disease called diverticulitis. In this surgery, called a laparoscopic sigmoidectomy, a part of the large intestine is removed. The surgeons also tied off a blood vessel called the inferior mesenteric artery in a procedure known as “high ligation”.

The study involved 25 men with an average age of 53, and it took place at a hospital that teaches medical students. The researchers wanted to know how this surgery affected bowel symptoms, pee function, and sexual function. They also looked at surgical data, any problems that happened during or after the surgery, and the patients’ quality of life.

The findings showed that there were no big changes in bowel symptoms, pee function, and sexual function six months after the surgery compared to before the surgery. There were no deaths and the rate of problems was 12%, with all the issues being minor. The patients’ quality of life actually improved after the surgery, especially their general health and medical status over the previous four weeks.

However, the researchers noted that the study has some limitations. For instance, it involved a small number of patients, it only followed them for six months, and it only included men.

In conclusion, the researchers found that this particular surgery does not cause functional problems six months after the operation. In fact, it seems to improve the quality of life, especially in terms of general health and medical status.

FAQs

  1. What was the primary aim of this study on laparoscopic sigmoidectomy performed with high ligation of the inferior mesenteric artery?
  2. Were there any significant differences in bowel, urinary, and sexual function in patients before and 6 months after the surgery?
  3. What impact did the laparoscopic sigmoidectomy have on the quality of life of the patients involved in the study?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about sigmoidectomy is to follow postoperative care instructions carefully, including taking prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and gradually resuming normal activities as advised by the healthcare team. It is also important to maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated to support the healing process. If any concerning symptoms or complications arise, it is important to contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended sigmoidectomy for diverticular disease include those who have recurrent or severe diverticulitis that does not respond to conservative treatment, those who have complications such as abscesses or fistulas, and those who have recurrent or severe symptoms such as bleeding, obstruction, or perforation. Additionally, patients who have failed to respond to medical management or who have a high risk of complications may also be recommended for sigmoidectomy.

Timeline

Timeline of patient experience before and after sigmoidectomy:

Before sigmoidectomy:

  • Patient experiences symptoms of diverticular disease, such as abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.
  • Patient undergoes diagnostic tests, such as colonoscopy or CT scan, to confirm the diagnosis of diverticulitis.
  • Patient discusses treatment options with their healthcare provider, including the possibility of sigmoidectomy.
  • Patient undergoes preoperative assessments and preparations, such as blood tests and imaging studies.
  • Patient receives counseling on the potential risks and benefits of sigmoidectomy.

After sigmoidectomy:

  • Patient undergoes laparoscopic sigmoidectomy with high ligation of the inferior mesenteric artery.
  • Patient recovers in the hospital for a few days post-surgery, with monitoring of vital signs and pain management.
  • Patient is discharged home with instructions on wound care, diet, and activity restrictions.
  • Patient follows up with their healthcare provider for postoperative visits to monitor healing and address any concerns.
  • Patient completes standardized questionnaires to evaluate bowel symptomatology, urinary function, and sexual function at 6 months postoperative.
  • Patient experiences improved quality of life, with better general health and medical status compared to before surgery.
  • Patient may experience minor morbidity, such as wound infection or constipation, which is managed appropriately.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with sigmoidectomy surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery period after sigmoidectomy surgery?
  3. Will I need to make any lifestyle changes or modifications after the surgery?
  4. How will my bowel function be affected after sigmoidectomy surgery?
  5. Will I experience any changes in urinary or sexual function after sigmoidectomy surgery?
  6. What follow-up care or monitoring will be necessary after the surgery?
  7. Are there any specific dietary recommendations I should follow after sigmoidectomy surgery?
  8. How will sigmoidectomy surgery impact my overall quality of life in the long term?
  9. Are there any alternative treatment options for my condition other than sigmoidectomy surgery?
  10. How experienced are you in performing laparoscopic sigmoidectomy with high ligation of the inferior mesenteric artery for diverticular disease?

Reference

Authors: Jolivet M, Trilling B, Sage PY, Boussat B, Girard E, Faucheron JL. Journal: Tech Coloproctol. 2020 Jan;24(1):33-40. doi: 10.1007/s10151-019-02123-6. Epub 2019 Dec 9. PMID: 31820191