Our Summary

This research paper is about a study that looked at the effect of a specific type of surgery, called an elective laparoscopic sigmoidectomy, on the quality of life of patients suffering from a condition called symptomatic uncomplicated diverticular disease (SUDD). This disease is marked by abdominal pain and changes in bowel function, which can greatly affect a person’s quality of life. The surgery is considered when the symptoms are severe and other treatments haven’t worked.

The researchers looked back on the medical records of patients with SUDD who underwent this surgery between January 2015 and March 2018. They used a special questionnaire to assess the patients’ quality of life before the surgery and then 6 and 12 months after the surgery. They also kept track of any hospital readmissions, unplanned medical visits, the resumption of a specific medication (mesalazine), and visits to the emergency room for abdominal symptoms.

The study found that 52 patients had the surgery. The overall quality of life for these patients did not change significantly six months after the surgery compared to before the surgery. However, their quality of life did improve significantly 12 months after the surgery. Despite the improvement, some patients still had symptoms. A small number of patients were readmitted to the hospital, visited the emergency room, had unplanned medical visits, or had to start taking mesalazine again.

The conclusion is that this type of surgery is safe and can improve the quality of life for patients with SUDD, but in some cases, symptoms may still persist after the surgery.

FAQs

  1. What is Symptomatic uncomplicated diverticular disease (SUDD)?
  2. How does elective laparoscopic sigmoidectomy for SUDD affect patients’ quality of life?
  3. What complications or issues were recorded after the elective laparoscopic sigmoidectomy procedure?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about sigmoidectomy is to maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine after surgery to promote healing and prevent complications. It is important to follow the post-operative instructions provided by your healthcare team, including taking any prescribed medications and attending follow-up appointments. If you experience any concerning symptoms or changes in your condition, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor for further evaluation and guidance.

Suitable For

Patients with symptomatic uncomplicated diverticular disease (SUDD) who have persistent localized pain, diarrhea, or constipation without macroscopic inflammation are typically recommended sigmoidectomy. These patients may have severe symptoms that significantly impact their quality of life and do not respond well to conservative therapy. Elective laparoscopic sigmoidectomy has been shown to be a safe and effective treatment option for these patients, leading to improved quality of life in the majority of cases. However, it is important to note that in some cases, symptoms may persist even after surgery.

Timeline

Before sigmoidectomy:

  • Patient experiences abdominal pain and altered bowel function
  • Conservative therapy is initially attempted
  • Symptoms are severe and surgery becomes an option

After sigmoidectomy:

  • Surgery is performed, typically laparoscopic sigmoidectomy
  • Quality of life is assessed using the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index questionnaire at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months post-surgery
  • At 6 months post-surgery, quality of life does not significantly differ from baseline
  • At 12 months post-surgery, patients report a better quality of life
  • Within the first year of follow-up, some patients may experience readmissions, emergency room visits, and unplanned medical examinations
  • Mesalazine may need to be resumed in some cases

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about sigmoidectomy for symptomatic uncomplicated diverticular disease (SUDD) may include:

  1. What are the potential benefits of undergoing a sigmoidectomy for SUDD?
  2. What are the risks and potential complications associated with sigmoidectomy surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery period after sigmoidectomy surgery?
  4. Will I need to make any lifestyle changes or follow a special diet after sigmoidectomy?
  5. Are there any alternative treatment options for SUDD that I should consider before opting for surgery?
  6. How likely is it that my symptoms will improve or resolve completely after sigmoidectomy?
  7. How often will I need to follow up with you after the surgery?
  8. Are there any long-term effects or complications that I should be aware of after sigmoidectomy?
  9. Will I need to take any medications or supplements after surgery to manage my symptoms?
  10. Can you provide me with more information about the specific surgical technique that will be used for my sigmoidectomy?

Reference

Authors: Mari GM, Crippa J, Roscio F, Scandroglio I, Cocozza E, Borroni G, Berselli M, Achilli P, Costanzi ATM, Maggioni D; AIMS Academy Clinical Research Network. Journal: Surg Laparosc Endosc Percutan Tech. 2020 Sep 15;31(2):193-195. doi: 10.1097/SLE.0000000000000860. PMID: 32941354