Clinical outcomes and quality of life after low anterior resection for rectal cancer.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate clinical outcomes and quality of life in terms of anal, urinary, and sexual function, after low anterior resection for rectal cancer.


METHODS
Retrospective study.


METHODS
University hospital, Switzerland.


METHODS
43 patients with low rectal cancers.


METHODS
27 were not given adjuvant radiotherapy and 16 had preoperative adjuvant radiotherapy 1.6 Gy twice daily for 13 days.


METHODS
Anal, urinary, and sexual function postoperatively.


RESULTS
23 patients reported normal defaecation (53%), 9 had incontinence of flatus (21%), 5 had occasional minor soiling (12%), 2 had frequent major soiling (5%), 4 had a total faecal incontinence (9%), and 3 had urinary incontinence (7%). Sexual dysfunction was reported by 9 of the 13 sexually active men and 2 of the 11 sexually active women.


CONCLUSIONS
Despite their reported faecal, urinary and sexual dysfunction most patients were satisfied with their quality of life. Counselling at the time of operation is highly recommended as a means of contributing to personal satisfaction.
Chatwin
Nigel A M
NA
Department of General Surgery, University Hospital CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland.
Ribordy
Michel
M
Givel
Jean C
JC
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D013505:Digestive System Surgical Procedures / Q000009:adverse effects; D005242:Fecal Incontinence / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011184:Postoperative Period; D011788:Quality of Life; D012004:Rectal Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome