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Hovdenak I, Thaysen HV, Bernstein IT, Christensen P, Hauberg A, Iversen LH, Johansen C, Larsen SL, Laurberg S, Madsen AH, Madsen MR, Rasmussen HV, Thorlacius-Ussing O, Juul T. Quality of life and symptom burden after rectal cancer surgery: a randomised controlled trial comparing patient-led versus standard follow-up. J Cancer Surviv 2024; 18:1709-1722. [PMID: 37395934 PMCID: PMC11424718 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-023-01410-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE After curatively intended rectal cancer (RC) surgery, new follow-up strategies are warranted, seeking more individualised care and targeting health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and functional outcomes. The FURCA trial aimed to investigate the effect of patient-led follow-up on HRQoL and symptom burden 3 years after surgery. METHODS RC patients from four Danish centres were randomised 1:1 to intervention (patient-led follow-up with patient education and self-referral to a specialist nurse) or control (standard follow-up with five routine doctor visits). Patients in both groups had a computed tomography (CT) at 1 and 3 years. The primary outcome (HRQoL) was assessed by the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy - colorectal (FACT-C) score (Ward et al. in Qual Life Res. 8(3):181-95, 18). Secondary outcomes were functional measures, patient involvement and satisfaction and cancer recurrence at 3 years. RESULTS From Feb 2016 to Aug 2018, 336 patients were included of whom 248 completed 3 years of follow-up. Between-group differences were found neither for the primary endpoint, nor for functional outcomes. The recurrence rate did not differ between the groups. Patient involvement and satisfaction were higher in the intervention group with statistical significance in almost half of the items. CONCLUSIONS We found no effect on HRQoL and symptom burden from patient-led follow-up, although it may improve patient-perceived involvement and satisfaction. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS The findings in this study suggest that patient-led follow-up is a more tailored approach to meet cancer survivors' needs and might improve their ability to cope with survivorship. CLINICALTRIALS GOV IDENTIFIER R97-A6511-14-S23.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ida Hovdenak
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark.
| | - Henriette Vind Thaysen
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Inge Thomsen Bernstein
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Aalborg University Hospital, Hobrovej 18-22, 9000, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Peter Christensen
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Ann Hauberg
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Aalborg University Hospital, Hobrovej 18-22, 9000, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Lene Hjerrild Iversen
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Christoffer Johansen
- Late Effect Research Unit, Oncology Clinic, University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Susie Lindhardt Larsen
- Department of Surgery, Regional Hospital Gødstrup, Hospitalsparken 15, 7400, Herning, Denmark
| | - Søren Laurberg
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Anders Husted Madsen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
- Department of Surgery, Regional Hospital Gødstrup, Hospitalsparken 15, 7400, Herning, Denmark
| | - Mogens Rørbæk Madsen
- Department of Surgery, Regional Hospital Gødstrup, Hospitalsparken 15, 7400, Herning, Denmark
| | - Helle Vindfeldt Rasmussen
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Aalborg University Hospital, Hobrovej 18-22, 9000, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Ole Thorlacius-Ussing
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Clinical Cancer Research Unit, Aalborg University Hospital, Hobrovej 18-22, 9000, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Sdr. Skovvej 15, 9000, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Therese Juul
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 99, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
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Balachandran R, Thaysen HV, Christensen P, Zachariae R, Iversen LH. Biopsychosocial Late Effects After Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy for Peritoneal Metastases from Colorectal and Appendiceal Cancer: A National Prospective Cohort Study. Ann Surg Oncol 2024; 31:1959-1969. [PMID: 38127212 PMCID: PMC10838225 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-023-14618-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer with peritoneal metastases can be treated with cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy. Treatment may result in biopsychosocial late effects (LEs). We explored the frequency and severity of the following biopsychosocial LEs: anxiety, depression, fear of cancer recurrence (FCR), insomnia, fatigue, cognitive impairment, and pain, and evaluated their impact on quality of life (QoL). METHOD This was a national prospective cohort study screening for LEs during the period January 2021-May 2023. Patients completed the following questionnaires: General Anxiety Disorder-7, Patient Health Questionnaire-9, FCR Inventory-Short Form, Insomnia Severity Index, Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue, cognitive impairment (six items from the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Item Library), and the Rectal Cancer Pain Score. Preregistration was completed at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04956107). RESULT In total, 99 patients were included. The mean age was 61 years and 57% were women. At 3 months after surgery, the frequent LEs were fatigue (72%), FCR (58%), and pain (48%), and at 12 months after surgery, the frequent LEs were FCR (65%), fatigue (40%), and insomnia (33%). More than half of the patients (54%) reported at least two LEs after 12 months. Patients with moderate-to-severe LEs reported a lower QoL than patients with no/mild LEs. Patients with no/mild LEs had a similar QoL as the Danish norm population. CONCLUSION Biopsychosocial LEs were prevalent. The QoL of patients reporting LEs in the worst severity categories was negatively impacted. Screening and treatment for these LEs should be a focus in cancer survivor follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rogini Balachandran
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
- Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects After Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.
| | - Henriette Vind Thaysen
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Peter Christensen
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects After Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Robert Zachariae
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects After Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Unit for Psychooncology and Health Psychology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Psychology and Behavioural Sciences, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Lene Hjerrild Iversen
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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3
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Bräuner AB, Avellaneda N, Christensen P, Drewes AM, Emmertsen KJ, Krogh K, Laurberg S, Lauritzen MB, Løve US, Thorlacius-Ussing O, Juul T. Prospective evaluation of bowel function and quality of life after colon cancer surgery - is it time for routine screening for late sequelae? Acta Oncol 2023; 62:1132-1142. [PMID: 37589432 DOI: 10.1080/0284186x.2023.2246102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
AIM Bowel dysfunction after colon cancer (CC) surgery is widely neglected in current follow up programmes. This study explored changes in bowel function and quality of life (QoL) from three (3 m) to twelve months (12 m) after surgery in CC patients undergoing right- or left-sided colon resection (RightSCR/LeftSCR) and investigated differences between the two groups 12 m after surgery. METHOD CC patients undergoing surgical resection in 2018-2020 at five surgical departments were included in this population-based prospective cohort study. Included patients completed electronic surveys consisting of a collection of validated scores 3 m and 12 m after surgery. RESULTS A total of 708 CC patients (423 RightSCR, 285 LeftSCR) were included. In RightSCR, no improvement was observed from 3 m to 12 m in most scores/items, on the contrary, symptom worsening in flatus- and faecal incontinence and urgency was observed (p < 0.05). Also, the proportion of patients rating their bowel function as very good/good decreased (p < 0.05) in this group. In LeftSCR improvement was found in flatus and faecal incontinence, urgency and night-time defaecation (p < 0.02), while no improvement was observed in the remaining scores/items. At 12 m, higher proportions of RightSCR than LeftSCR reported loose stools, incontinence and urgency (all p < 0.001), whereas LeftSCR more often reported hard stools and flatus incontinence (p < 0.05). Among all CC patients 18.3% reported bowel-related impairment of QoL at 12 m with no differences between the two groups. CONCLUSION From 3 m to 12 m no significant change was observed in the majority of bowel function and QoL scores/items, however, some symptoms worsened in RightSCR, while a few improved in LeftSCR. Bowel dysfunction and impaired QoL were still common in both groups at 12 m, although the symptom pattern differed between the groups. These findings call for a systematic screening for bowel dysfunction to ensure early treatment of symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette Boesen Bräuner
- Department of Surgery, Regional Hospital Viborg, Viborg, Denmark
- Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects After Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Nicolas Avellaneda
- General Surgical Department, Centro de Educación Médica e Investigaciones Clínicas "Noberto Quirno" (CEMIC), Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Peter Christensen
- Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects After Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Asbjørn Mohr Drewes
- Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects After Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aalborg, Denmark
- Mech-Sense. Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Katrine Jøssing Emmertsen
- Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects After Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Surgery, Regional Hospital Randers, Randers, Denmark
| | - Klaus Krogh
- Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects After Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Søren Laurberg
- Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects After Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Michael Bødker Lauritzen
- Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects After Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Uffe Schou Løve
- Department of Surgery, Regional Hospital Viborg, Viborg, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ole Thorlacius-Ussing
- Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects After Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Therese Juul
- Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects After Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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Haas S, Mikkelsen AH, Kronborg CJS, Oggesen BT, Møller PF, Fassov J, Frederiksen NA, Krogsgaard M, Graugaard-Jensen C, Ventzel L, Christensen P, Emmertsen KJ. Management of treatment-related sequelae following colorectal cancer. Colorectal Dis 2023; 25:458-488. [PMID: 35969031 DOI: 10.1111/codi.16299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
AIM Colorectal cancer survivors are one of the most rapidly growing groups of patients living with and beyond cancer. In a national multidisciplinary setting, we have examined the extent of late treatment-related sequelae in colorectal cancer survivors and present the scientific evidence for management of these conditions in this patient category with the aim of facilitating identification and treatment. METHOD A systematic search for existing guidelines and relevant studies was performed across 16 and 4 databases, respectively, from inception to 2021. This yielded 13 guidelines and 886 abstracts, of which 188 were included in the finalized guideline (231 included for full text review). Secondarily, bibliographies were cross-referenced and 53 additional articles were included. RESULTS Symptoms have been divided into overall categories including psychosocial, bowel-related, urinary, sexual (male and female), pain/neuropathy and fatigue symptoms or complaints that are examined individually. Merging and grading of data resulted in 22 recommendations and 42 management strategies across categories. Recommendations are of a more general character, whereas management strategies provide more practical advice suited for initiation on site before referral to specialized units. CONCLUSION Treatment-related sequelae in colorectal cancer survivors are common and attention needs to be focused on identifying patients with unmet treatment needs and the development of evidence-based treatment algorithms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Haas
- Department of Surgery, Danish Cancer Society National Research Center for Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects Following Pelvic Organ Cancer, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Surgery, Randers Regional Hospital, Randers, Denmark
| | | | | | | | - Pia F Møller
- Department of Surgery, Vejle Hospital, Vejle, Denmark
| | - Janne Fassov
- Department of Surgery, Danish Cancer Society National Research Center for Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects Following Pelvic Organ Cancer, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | | | | | - Lise Ventzel
- Department of Oncology, University Hospital of Southern Denmark, Vejle, Denmark
| | - Peter Christensen
- Department of Surgery, Danish Cancer Society National Research Center for Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects Following Pelvic Organ Cancer, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Katrine Jøssing Emmertsen
- Department of Surgery, Danish Cancer Society National Research Center for Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects Following Pelvic Organ Cancer, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Surgery, Randers Regional Hospital, Randers, Denmark
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Alharbi RA, Elfeki H, Emmertsen KJ, Mortensen AR, Drewes AM, Christensen P, Laurberg S, Juul T. Chronic pain after colon cancer surgery: Translation and validation of a scoring system. Colorectal Dis 2023; 25:202-210. [PMID: 36100354 DOI: 10.1111/codi.16339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to translate and validate the chronic pain score (CP score) in a cohort of colon cancer patients. Chronic pain following colon cancer surgery is still poorly understood, in particular the lack of a validated tool for measuring chronic pain is a major issue as such an instrument is critical for evaluating the incidence and risk factors. The CP score was created using data from Danish rectal cancer patients. METHODS Danish colorectal cancer survivors diagnosed between 2001 and 2014 completed the CP score and two quality of life (QoL) measures. Clinical data were obtained from a national database. Convergent validity was investigated by testing the association of the CP score with a single ad hoc QoL item and the EORTC QLQ-C30, and discriminative validity was tested as the score's ability to differentiate between gender and age groups. Sensitivity and specificity were evaluated by determining the ability of the score to identify patients with a major impact of pain on QoL. RESULTS Responses from 7127 colon cancer were included. Convergent validity was confirmed, as the score was associated with both QoL measures (p < 0.001). Moreover, the score could differentiate between males/females and older/younger patients (p < 0.001, respectively), reflecting high discriminative validity. Finally, the score was able to identify patients with a major impact on QoL, with a sensitivity of 87% and specificity of 82%. CONCLUSION The CP score is a valid tool for measuring chronic pain after colon cancer surgery and should be used to homogenize outcomes in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reem A Alharbi
- Department of Clinical Surgery, College of Medicine, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz University Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hossam Elfeki
- Department of Surgery, Mansoura University Hospital, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Katrine J Emmertsen
- Department of Surgery, Regional Hospital Randers, Randers, Denmark.,Danish Cancer Society National Research Centre on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects After Cancer in Pelvic Organs, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Asbjørn M Drewes
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Peter Christensen
- Danish Cancer Society National Research Centre on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects After Cancer in Pelvic Organs, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Søren Laurberg
- Danish Cancer Society National Research Centre on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects After Cancer in Pelvic Organs, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Therese Juul
- Danish Cancer Society National Research Centre on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects After Cancer in Pelvic Organs, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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6
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Mekhael M, Larsen HM, Lauritzen MB, Thorlacius-Ussing O, Laurberg S, Krogh K, Drewes AM, Christensen P, Juul T. Bowel dysfunction following pelvic organ cancer: a prospective study on the treatment effect in nurse-led late sequelae clinics. Acta Oncol 2023; 62:70-79. [PMID: 36757368 DOI: 10.1080/0284186x.2023.2168214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bowel dysfunction following treatment of pelvic organ cancer is prevalent and impacts the quality of life (QoL). The present study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and effects of treating bowel dysfunction in two nurse-led late sequelae clinics. MATERIAL AND METHODS Treatment effects were monitored prospectively by patient-reported outcome measures collected at baseline and discharge. Change in bowel function was evaluated by 15 bowel symptoms, the St. Mark's Incontinence Score, the Patients Assessment of Constipation-Symptoms (PAC-SYM) score and self-rated bowel function. QoL was evaluated by the EuroQol 5-dimension 5-level (EQ-5D-5L) utility score and by measuring the impact of bowel function on QoL. RESULTS From June 2018 to December 2021, 380 cancer survivors (46% rectal, 15% gynaecological, 13% anal, 12% colon, 12% prostate, and 2% other cancers) completed a baseline questionnaire and started treatment for bowel dysfunction. At referral, 96% of patients were multisymptomatic. The most frequent symptoms were faecal urgency (95%), fragmented defaecation (93%), emptying difficulties (92%), flatus/faecal incontinence (flatus 89%, liquid 59%, solid 33%), and obstructed defaecation (79%). In total, 169 patients were discharged from the clinics in the follow-up period. At discharge, 69% received conservative treatment only and 24% also received transanal irrigation; 4% were surgically treated; 3% discontinued treatment. Improvements were seen in all 15 bowel symptoms (p < 0.001), the mean St. Mark's Incontinence Score (12.0 to 9.9, p < 0.001), the mean PAC-SYM score (1.04 to 0.84, p < 0.001) and the mean EQ-5D-5L utility score (0.78 to 0.84, p < 0.001). Self-rated bowel function improved in 56% (p < 0.001) of cases and the impact of bowel function on QoL improved in 46% (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION Treatment of bowel dysfunction in nurse-led late sequelae clinics is feasible and significantly improved bowel function and QoL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mira Mekhael
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus and Aalborg University Hospitals, Aarhus and Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Helene M Larsen
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus and Aalborg University Hospitals, Aarhus and Aalborg, Denmark.,Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Michael B Lauritzen
- Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus and Aalborg University Hospitals, Aarhus and Aalborg, Denmark.,Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Ole Thorlacius-Ussing
- Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus and Aalborg University Hospitals, Aarhus and Aalborg, Denmark.,Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Søren Laurberg
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus and Aalborg University Hospitals, Aarhus and Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Klaus Krogh
- Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus and Aalborg University Hospitals, Aarhus and Aalborg, Denmark.,Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Asbjørn M Drewes
- Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus and Aalborg University Hospitals, Aarhus and Aalborg, Denmark.,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Peter Christensen
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus and Aalborg University Hospitals, Aarhus and Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Therese Juul
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus and Aalborg University Hospitals, Aarhus and Aalborg, Denmark
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Laursen BS, Sørensen GK, Majgaard M, Jensen LB, Jacobsen KI, Kjær DK, Juul T, Christensen P, Mikkelsen AH. Coping strategies and considerations regarding low anterior resection syndrome and quality of life among patients with rectal cancer; a qualitative interview study. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1040462. [DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1040462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
IntroductionLow anterior resection syndrome (LARS) is defined as disordered bowel function following rectal resection, which is detrimental to quality of life (QoL). A recent international consensus definition of LARS stresses the importance of focusing on both the symptoms and the consequences that the symptoms have for the individual patient as studies indicate that LARS has a negative impact on patients’ QoL. However, an ongoing PROM study investigating late sequelae after rectal cancer finds that a minor proportion of patients scoring major LARS experience none or only little impact on quality of lifeAimThe aim of this study was to identify patients’ considerations and coping strategies to establish why the burden caused by major LARS had little or no influence on their QoL.Materials and methodsThis was a qualitative interview study based on 21 semi-structured individual telephone interviews with patients treated for rectal cancer. Data were analysed using a hermeneutic inspired thematic analysis.Results and conclusionThree themes emerged from the analysis; Adapting new life situation, Altering life perception and the Importance of relationships. Major LARS and its consequences following rectal cancer may be managed or altered by adopting problem-focused and emotion-focused coping strategies. Maintaining a positive attitude and having a good network of family and friends constitute a surplus, allowing patients to cope with the need for changed behaviour and appreciate the life that they have been given. Accepting that major LARS and its consequences cause limitations in life allowed patients to change their normality threshold over time.
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8
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Krogsgaard M, Kristensen HØ, Furnée EJB, Verkuijl SJ, Rama NJ, Domingos H, Maciel J, Solis-Peña A, Espín-Basany E, Hidalgo-Pujol M, Biondo S, Sjövall A, Emmertsen KJ, Thyø A, Christensen P. Life with a stoma across five European countries-a cross-sectional study on long-term rectal cancer survivors. Support Care Cancer 2022; 30:8969-8979. [PMID: 35930059 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-022-07293-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Stoma-related problems are known to be important to patients and potentially affect everyday life. The prevalence of stoma-related problems in rectal cancer survivors remains undetermined. This study aimed to examine aspects of life with a long-term stoma, stoma management, and stoma-related problems and explore the impact of stoma-related problems on daily life. METHODS In total, 2262 patients from 5 European countries completed a multidimensional survey. Stoma-related problems were assessed using the Colostomy Impact score. Multivariable regression analysis, after adjusting for potential confounding factors, provided odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for stoma-related problems' association with restrictions in daily life. RESULTS The 2262 rectal cancer survivors completed the questionnaire at a median of 5.4 years (interquartile range 3.8-7.6) after stoma formation. In the total sample, leakage (58%) and troublesome odour (55%) were most prevalent followed by skin problems (27%) and pain (21%). Stoma-related problems were more prevalent in patients with parastomal bulging. A total of 431 (19%) reported feeling restricted in daily activities in life with a stoma. Leakage, odour, skin problems, stool consistency, and frequent appliance changes were significantly associated with restrictions in daily life. The highest risk of experiencing restrictions was seen for patients having odour (OR 2.74 [95% CI: 1.99-3.78]) more than once a week and skin problems (OR 1.77 [95% CI: 1.38-2.27]). CONCLUSION In this large cohort with rectal cancer, stoma-related problems were highly prevalent and impacted daily life. Supportive care strategies should entail outreach to patients with a long-term stoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne Krogsgaard
- Department of Surgery, Center for Surgical Science, Zealand University Hospital, Lykkebækvej 1, 4600, Koege, Denmark.
| | - Helle Ø Kristensen
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research On Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects After Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Edgar J B Furnée
- Department of Surgery, Division of Abdominal Surgery, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Sanne J Verkuijl
- Department of Surgery, Division of Abdominal Surgery, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Nuno José Rama
- Surgery - Colorectal Unit, Centro Hospitalar de Leiria, Leiria, Portugal
| | - Hugo Domingos
- Colorectal Surgery Unit, Champalimaud Foundation, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - João Maciel
- Colorectal Surgery Unit, Instituto Português de Oncologia, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Alejandro Solis-Peña
- Colorectal Surgery Unit, General Surgery Department, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eloy Espín-Basany
- Colorectal Surgery Unit, General Surgery Department, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Hidalgo-Pujol
- Department of General and Digestive Surgery, Coloproctology Unit, Bellvitge University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain.,University of Barcelona and IBIDELL (Bellvitge Biomedical Investigation Institute), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sebastiano Biondo
- Department of General and Digestive Surgery, Coloproctology Unit, Bellvitge University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain.,University of Barcelona and IBIDELL (Bellvitge Biomedical Investigation Institute), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Annika Sjövall
- Division of Coloproctology, Department of Pelvic Cancer, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Katrine J Emmertsen
- Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research On Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects After Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Surgery, Regional Hospital Randers, Randers, Denmark
| | - Anne Thyø
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research On Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects After Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Surgery, Regional Hospital Randers, Randers, Denmark
| | - Peter Christensen
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research On Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects After Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus, Denmark
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9
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Borre M, Fassov J, Juul T, Laurberg S, Christensen P, Bräuner AB, Thorlacius Ussing O, Lauritzen MB, Drewes AM, Faaborg PM, Krogh K. Diet and bowel symptoms among colon cancer survivors. Acta Oncol 2022; 61:1192-1199. [DOI: 10.1080/0284186x.2022.2101901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mette Borre
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Janne Fassov
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Therese Juul
- Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Søren Laurberg
- Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Peter Christensen
- Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Annette Boesen Bräuner
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Surgery, Regional Hospital Viborg, Viborg, Denmark
| | - Ole Thorlacius Ussing
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Michael Bødker Lauritzen
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Surgery, North Denmark Regional Hospital, Hjoerring, Denmark
| | - Asbjørn Mohr Drewes
- Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Mech-Sense, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Pia Møller Faaborg
- Department of Surgery, Danish Colorectal Cancer Center South, Vejle, Denmark
| | - Klaus Krogh
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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10
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Hovdenak Jakobsen I, Vind Thaysen H, Laurberg S, Johansen C, Juul T. Patient-led follow-up reduces outpatient doctor visits and improves patient satisfaction. One-year analysis of secondary outcomes in the randomised trial Follow-Up after Rectal CAncer (FURCA). Acta Oncol 2021; 60:1130-1139. [PMID: 34238100 DOI: 10.1080/0284186x.2021.1950924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND FURCA (Follow-Up after Rectal Cancer) is a multi-centre randomised trial comparing patient-led follow-up with standard outpatient follow-up. This paper reports one-year follow-up data from the FURCA trial on selected secondary outcomes including type and number of contacts, patient-reported involvement and satisfaction with health care services during follow-up. MATERIAL AND METHODS Patients with rectal cancer (stage < IV) from four Danish surgical centres were randomised (1:1) into intervention (education and self-referral to project nurse) or standard follow-up (routine clinical doctor visits). The present analysis involved data on hospital contacts during the first year after surgery, patient involvement and satisfaction measured at one year, and baseline patient-reported and clinical variables. RESULTS Of 512 eligible patients, 168 were allocated to patient-led follow-up (intervention) and 168 to standard follow-up (control). The total number of hospital contacts in the intervention arm did not differ significantly from the number of contacts in the control arm (p = 0.44). More patients had ≥15 contacts in the intervention arm than in the control arm (p = 0.004). The total number of outpatient doctor visits was significantly lower in the intervention arm (p < 0.001). Patients in both arms rated involvement and satisfaction high; yet patients in the intervention arm scored significantly higher on two of six items regarding involvement and all five items regarding satisfaction. Of the 168 patients in the intervention arm, 43% made direct contact (self-referral) to the project nurse, and 14 of these patients (8%) had ≥4 contacts. The primary reason for self-referral was bowel dysfunction. DISCUSSION The findings indicate the value of a patient-led follow-up program in terms of direct access and more individually tailored intervention based on patients' needs, with most tasks being managed by nurses. Patient-led follow-up came with improved patient-perceived involvement and satisfaction; thus, it was both acceptable and favourable for the patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Søren Laurberg
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Christoffer Johansen
- Late Effect Research Unit, Oncology Clinic, University Hospital Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Therese Juul
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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11
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Larsen HM, Mekhael M, Juul T, Borre M, Christensen P, Mohr Drewes A, Thorlacius-Ussing O, Laurberg S, Krogh K, Ladefoged Fassov J. Long-term gastrointestinal sequelae in colon cancer survivors: prospective pilot study on identification, the need for clinical evaluation and effects of treatment. Colorectal Dis 2021; 23:356-366. [PMID: 33511684 DOI: 10.1111/codi.15544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
AIM The aim of the present pilot study was to describe the type and frequency of long-term gastrointestinal symptoms within a well-defined cohort of colon cancer survivors, their wish for clinical evaluation and treatment outcomes. METHOD A screening survey was sent to colon cancer survivors 12, 24 and 36 months after surgery. Based on their main symptoms, patients who wished to have a consultation were referred to the gastroenterological or surgical unit of our late cancer sequelae clinic. Treatment effect was monitored by questionnaires on bowel symptoms and the EuroQol five-dimensional (EQ-5D) quality-of-life score. RESULTS Overall, 953 patients who had survived colon cancer received the screening survey and 767 replied (response rate 80.5%). Of these, 76 (9.9%; 95% CI 7.9%-12.2%) were referred for algorithm-based clinical evaluation and treatment of bowel dysfunction. The majority were women (69.7%) who had undergone a right-sided colonic resection (65.8%). Patients reported various symptoms, mainly including urgency, fragmented defaecation, loose stools and incontinence for liquid stools. Patients with emptying difficulties and low anterior resection syndrome-like symptoms were referred to the surgical unit and patients with diarrhoea were referred to the gastroenterological unit for clinical work-up. Our main endpoint, mean EQ-5D index after treatment, was improved compared with baseline (baseline 0.809, after treatment 0.846; p = 0.049). After treatment, self-rated bowel function and several bowel symptoms were improved as well. CONCLUSION This study highlights the importance of identifying colon cancer survivors in need of treatment of late gastrointestinal sequelae and clinical management in a multidisciplinary team setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helene M Larsen
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus/Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Mira Mekhael
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus/Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Therese Juul
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus/Aalborg, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Mette Borre
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus/Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Peter Christensen
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus/Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Asbjørn Mohr Drewes
- Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus/Aalborg, Denmark.,Mech-Sense, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Ole Thorlacius-Ussing
- Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus/Aalborg, Denmark.,Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Søren Laurberg
- Department of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus/Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Klaus Krogh
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus/Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Janne Ladefoged Fassov
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Danish Cancer Society Centre for Research on Survivorship and Late Adverse Effects after Cancer in the Pelvic Organs, Aarhus/Aalborg, Denmark
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