Our Summary

This study looked at the effects of a specific type of surgery for sigmoid colon cancer on patients’ bowel, bladder, and sexual functions. The surgery, called a sigmoidectomy, involves removing part of the colon and can potentially damage nerves that control these functions. The researchers used data from a clinical trial where patients with sigmoid colon cancer underwent two types of this surgery. They found that one year after surgery, a significant percentage of patients had problems with bowel function (27.9%), bladder function (22.2% of men and 29.4% of women), and sexual function (43.8% of men and 27.3% of women). However, there was no clear link between the type of surgery and these issues. The only factor that was clearly linked to sexual dysfunction was age. Additionally, having diabetes was associated with slower recovery in terms of bowel and bladder function.

FAQs

  1. What is a sigmoidectomy and how can it affect a patient’s bowel, bladder, and sexual functions?
  2. What percentage of patients experienced problems with bowel, bladder, and sexual functions one year after the sigmoidectomy?
  3. Are there any factors that were found to be clearly linked to sexual dysfunction after a sigmoidectomy?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about sigmoidectomy is to discuss any concerns about potential changes in bowel, bladder, and sexual functions with their healthcare team before and after surgery. It is important for patients to communicate openly with their doctors about any symptoms or issues they may be experiencing, as there are various treatment options available to help manage these problems. Additionally, following a healthy lifestyle, including maintaining a balanced diet and staying physically active, can also help improve overall recovery and quality of life after sigmoidectomy surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended sigmoidectomy include those with sigmoid colon cancer, diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease (such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease), or other conditions that affect the sigmoid colon. Sigmoidectomy may be recommended when other treatments have not been effective or when there is a risk of complications such as perforation, obstruction, or bleeding. Patients who have a family history of colorectal cancer or who have a genetic predisposition to developing colorectal cancer may also be recommended for sigmoidectomy as a preventive measure.

Timeline

Before sigmoidectomy:

  • Patient is diagnosed with sigmoid colon cancer
  • Patient undergoes pre-surgical evaluations and tests
  • Patient consults with surgeon to discuss treatment options
  • Patient prepares for surgery by following pre-surgical instructions
  • Patient undergoes sigmoidectomy surgery to remove part of the colon

After sigmoidectomy:

  • Patient stays in hospital for recovery and monitoring
  • Patient may experience pain, discomfort, and fatigue
  • Patient gradually resumes normal activities and diet under medical guidance
  • Patient may need physical therapy or rehabilitation to regain strength and function
  • Patient undergoes follow-up appointments and tests to monitor recovery and potential complications
  • Patient may experience changes in bowel, bladder, and sexual functions
  • Patient may require additional treatments or therapies to manage any post-surgical issues

Overall, the timeline of a patient’s experience before and after sigmoidectomy involves diagnosis, preparation, surgery, recovery, and long-term monitoring and management of potential side effects and complications.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with a sigmoidectomy surgery?
  2. How will the surgery affect my bowel, bladder, and sexual functions post-operatively?
  3. What can I do to prepare for the surgery and optimize my recovery?
  4. Are there any specific lifestyle changes or modifications I should make after the surgery?
  5. Are there any specific exercises or physical therapy programs that can help improve my bowel, bladder, or sexual functions post-surgery?
  6. What is the expected timeline for recovery and when can I expect to see improvements in my functions?
  7. Are there any medications or treatments available to help manage any potential issues with bowel, bladder, or sexual functions after surgery?
  8. How often should I follow up with you after the surgery to monitor my recovery and address any concerns?
  9. Are there any signs or symptoms I should watch out for that may indicate a complication with my bowel, bladder, or sexual functions post-surgery?
  10. Are there any support groups or resources available for patients undergoing sigmoidectomy surgery to help cope with any functional changes?

Reference

Authors: Planellas P, Marinello F, Elorza G, Golda T, Farrés R, Espín-Basany E, Enríquez-Navascués JM, Kreisler E, Cornejo L, Codina-Cazador A. Journal: Langenbecks Arch Surg. 2023 Aug 1;408(1):293. doi: 10.1007/s00423-023-03026-9. PMID: 37526748