Our Summary

This study aimed to measure the severity of bowel problems (anorectal dysfunction) in people who have had rectal cancer surgery, using a scoring system called the Low Anterior Resection Syndrome (LARS) score. Researchers looked at data from 331 patients who underwent surgery for rectal cancer between 2000 and 2014, and used the LARS score to rate their bowel function. They found that over half of the patients had scores reflecting minor or major LARS, indicating some level of bowel problems. The type of surgery, use of radiotherapy, and younger age were all linked to higher LARS scores. But when one type of surgery was excluded from the analysis, only younger age remained a significant factor. The study concluded that the LARS score is useful in identifying patients with bowel problems after surgery for rectal cancer and that the extent of the surgery may be linked to the severity of symptoms. The role of radiotherapy in these symptoms still needs further research.

FAQs

  1. What is the Low Anterior Resection Syndrome (LARS) score used for in this study?
  2. What factors were found to be linked to higher LARS scores in rectal cancer patients who underwent surgery?
  3. Does the study conclude that the use of radiotherapy is definitively linked to the severity of bowel problems after rectal cancer surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient who has undergone bowel resection surgery to be aware of potential bowel problems such as anorectal dysfunction. They may advise the patient to monitor their bowel movements and to report any changes or discomfort to their healthcare provider. The doctor may also recommend maintaining a healthy diet high in fiber and staying hydrated to promote regular bowel function. Additionally, they may suggest pelvic floor exercises or physical therapy to help improve bowel control. Regular follow-up appointments with a healthcare provider are important to monitor and manage any bowel issues that may arise after surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for bowel resection are those who have conditions such as:

  1. Colon or rectal cancer
  2. Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis)
  3. Diverticulitis
  4. Bowel obstruction
  5. Traumatic injury to the bowel
  6. Intestinal ischemia (lack of blood flow to the intestines)

Timeline

Before bowel resection:

  1. Patient is diagnosed with rectal cancer and undergoes various tests and evaluations to determine the extent of the disease.
  2. Patient may undergo chemotherapy or radiation therapy to shrink the tumor before surgery.
  3. Patient meets with a surgeon to discuss the bowel resection procedure and potential risks and benefits.
  4. Patient undergoes the bowel resection surgery to remove the cancerous part of the bowel.
  5. Patient is monitored closely in the hospital post-surgery for any complications.

After bowel resection:

  1. Patient experiences post-operative pain and discomfort, which is managed with medication.
  2. Patient begins a gradual diet progression, starting with clear liquids and advancing to solid foods.
  3. Patient may experience changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation.
  4. Patient may have follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and discuss any concerns.
  5. Patient may experience long-term bowel problems, such as LARS, which can impact quality of life and may require additional treatment or management strategies.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is a bowel resection and why is it necessary for my condition?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with bowel resection surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery process after a bowel resection surgery?
  4. Will I need to make any changes to my diet or lifestyle after the surgery?
  5. How will bowel resection surgery affect my bowel function and what can I expect in terms of bowel movements?
  6. Are there any long-term effects or complications that I should be aware of after the surgery?
  7. Will I need any additional treatments or therapies after the surgery to manage any potential bowel problems?
  8. How often should I follow up with you after the surgery to monitor my bowel function and overall health?
  9. Are there any support groups or resources available for patients who have undergone bowel resection surgery?
  10. Can you provide me with more information about the LARS scoring system and how it may be relevant to my situation?

Reference

Authors: Kupsch J, Jackisch T, Matzel KE, Zimmer J, Schreiber A, Sims A, Witzigmann H, Stelzner S. Journal: Int J Colorectal Dis. 2018 Jun;33(6):787-798. doi: 10.1007/s00384-018-3006-x. Epub 2018 Mar 15. PMID: 29541896