Our Summary

This study aimed to examine the quality of scientific articles about early and late leaks that can occur after colorectal surgery and the risks involved with these leaks. The researchers used several scientific databases to find relevant articles and assessed their quality using a recognized scoring system. They found 9 articles specifically related to these leaks. They found that there isn’t a universal agreement on when to classify a leak as ’early’ or ’late’, but both types are considered distinct issues. Early leaks are typically associated with issues related to the surgical technique, while late leaks are associated with problems in the healing process.

FAQs

  1. What was the main aim of this study on colorectal surgery?
  2. What issues were found to be associated with early and late leaks that can occur after colorectal surgery?
  3. How did the researchers assess the quality of the scientific articles they found?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about colorectal surgery is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to reduce the risk of leaks and complications. This may include taking prescribed medications, maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments. It is also important to report any unusual symptoms or changes in bowel habits to your healthcare provider promptly. By following these guidelines, patients can help ensure a successful recovery and minimize the risk of complications.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended colorectal surgery include those with:

  1. Colorectal cancer
  2. Inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis)
  3. Diverticulitis
  4. Rectal prolapse
  5. Colorectal polyps
  6. Fecal incontinence
  7. Chronic constipation
  8. Rectal or anal fistulas

Patients with severe symptoms or complications related to these conditions may require surgery to alleviate their symptoms and improve their quality of life. Additionally, patients with a family history of colorectal cancer or other risk factors may also be recommended for colorectal surgery as a preventative measure.

Timeline

Before colorectal surgery:

  • Patient undergoes pre-operative evaluation, which may include blood tests, imaging studies, and consultations with various healthcare providers.
  • Patient may be prescribed medications or undergo bowel preparation to empty the colon before surgery.
  • Patient is advised to follow specific dietary restrictions and lifestyle modifications in preparation for surgery.

After colorectal surgery:

  • Patient is closely monitored in the recovery room for any immediate post-operative complications.
  • Patient may experience pain, discomfort, and bloating in the days following surgery.
  • Patient is gradually reintroduced to a normal diet as tolerated and encouraged to engage in light physical activity.
  • Patient may require follow-up appointments with their surgeon to monitor healing and address any concerns or complications.
  • Patient may undergo additional imaging studies or procedures to assess for any leaks or other post-operative issues.
  • Patient may be referred to a colorectal specialist for ongoing management of any long-term complications or issues related to the surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about colorectal surgery include:

  1. What type of colorectal surgery do you recommend for my condition?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this surgery, including the risk of early or late leaks?
  3. How experienced are you in performing this type of surgery?
  4. What is the expected recovery time and what can I expect during the recovery process?
  5. Will I need to make any changes to my diet or lifestyle before or after the surgery?
  6. What are the potential long-term effects of this surgery on my digestive system?
  7. How will you monitor for any signs of early or late leaks after the surgery?
  8. What can I do to reduce my risk of developing a leak after the surgery?
  9. What are the signs and symptoms of a leak that I should watch out for?
  10. What are my options for treatment if a leak does occur after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Škrabec CG, Carné AV, Pérez MC, Corral J, Pujol AF, Cuadrado M, Troya J, Ibáñez JJ, Parés D. Journal: Cir Esp (Engl Ed). 2023 Jan;101(1):3-11. doi: 10.1016/j.cireng.2022.07.011. Epub 2022 Jul 23. PMID: 35882311