Prospective evaluation of anorectal function after total mesorectal excision for rectal carcinoma with or without preoperative radiotherapy

Effect of Robotic Inferior Mesenteric Artery Ligation Level on Low Anterior Resection Syndrome in Rectum Cancer

Background: Life expectancy of patients with rectal cancer is increasing day by day with innovative treatments. Low anterior resection syndrome (LARS), which disrupts the comfort of life in these patients, has become a serious problem. We aimed to evaluate the effect of high ligation (HL) and low ligation (LL) techniques on LARS in rectal cancer surgery performed with the robotic method. Materials and Methods: The data of patients diagnosed with mid-distal rectal cancer between 2016 and 2021 who underwent robotic low anterior resection by the same team in the same center with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy were retrospectively evaluated. Patients were divided into two groups as those who underwent HL and LL procedures. Preoperative, 8 weeks after neoadjuvant treatment, 3 and 12 months after ileostomy closure were evaluated. Results: A total of 84 patients (41 HL, 43 LL) were included in the study. There was no statistically significant difference between the demographic characteristics and pathology data of the patients. Although there was a decrease in LARS scores after neoadjuvant treatment, there was a statistically significant difference between the two groups at 3 and 12 months after ileostomy closure (P: .001, P: .015). Conclusions: In patients who underwent robotic low anterior resection, there is a statistically significant difference in the LARS score in the first 1 year with the LL technique compared with that of the HL technique, and the LL technique has superiority in reducing the development of LARS between the two oncologically indistinguishable methods.

A prospective evaluation of the effect of transanal minimally invasive surgery (TAMIS) on low anterior resection syndrome

PURPOSE

Transanal minimally invasive surgery (TAMIS) is a surgical alternative to transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM), transanal excision and proctectomy in the management of benign rectal polyps and early rectal cancers. Low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) describes the constellation of symptoms which result from and are common after distal colorectal resection. Symptoms include incontinence, frequency, urgency and evacuatory dysfunction. The aim of the current study was to prospectively evaluate pre- and post-operative LARS in patients who undergo TAMIS.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective analysis of a consecutive series of patients who underwent TAMIS at our institution between January 2021 and February 2022. A LARS questionnaire was undertaken preoperatively, at 1 month and at 6 months post-operatively.

RESULTS

Twenty patients were recruited to this pilot study. The mean age was 63 ± 12 years, 11 of the patients were male, mean pre-operative BMI was 29 ± 6 kg/m², and 30% (n = 6) of patients underwent TAMIS for an invasive rectal cancer, with all patients receiving an R0 resection. Mean distance from the anal verge was 5.7 ± 3.2 cm, and mean lesion diameter was 46 ± 20.5 mm. A statistically significant interval reduction was observed between preoperative (20.3 ± 12.9) and 6-month post-operative (12.6 ± 9.7) LARS scores (p = 0.02) and also between 1-month (18.2 ± 10.6) and 6-month post-operative scores (p = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

We noted a high prevalence of LARS across our cohort preoperatively, and this had improved significantly at 6-month review post-TAMIS. This study reaffirms the safety and efficacy of TAMIS for the treatment of early rectal neoplasia.

Efficacy of Tibial Nerve Stimulation on Fecal Incontinence in Patients With Low Anterior Resection Syndrome Following Surgery for Colorectal Cancer

OBJECTIVE

To systematically review the available literature on the efficacy of tibial nerve stimulation on faecal incontinence and quality of life in adult patients with low anterior resection syndrome following surgery for colorectal cancer.

METHODS

A primary search of electronic databases was conducted adopting a combination of search terms related to the following areas of interest: "efficacy", "tibial nerve stimulation" and "low anterior resection syndrome". A secondary search of the grey literature was performed in addition to checking the reference list of included studies and review papers. The review was reported following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines. A descriptive analysis was used to integrate the review findings.

RESULTS

Five distinct studies involving 116 patients met the inclusion criteria for the review. The included studies suggest that tibial nerve stimulation may have a positive effect on faecal incontinence and quality of life in some patients with low anterior resection syndrome and might be considered as an additional treatment option.

CONCLUSION

There were a limited number of studies and a great degree of heterogeneity of evidence due to differences in participants' baseline characteristics, dropout rates, and follow-up periods. Further research adopting validated, consistent, and complex outcome assessment methods is recommended to determine the efficacy of tibial nerve stimulation for treatment of patients with low anterior resection syndrome.

Post-Operative Functional Outcomes in Early Age Onset Rectal Cancer

Background

Impairment of bowel, urogenital and fertility-related function in patients treated for rectal cancer is common. While the rate of rectal cancer in the young (<50 years) is rising, there is little data on functional outcomes in this group.

Methods

The REACCT international collaborative database was reviewed and data on eligible patients analysed. Inclusion criteria comprised patients with a histologically confirmed rectal cancer, <50 years of age at time of diagnosis and with documented follow-up including functional outcomes.

Results

A total of 1428 (n=1428) patients met the eligibility criteria and were included in the final analysis. Metastatic disease was present at diagnosis in 13%. Of these, 40% received neoadjuvant therapy and 50% adjuvant chemotherapy. The incidence of post-operative major morbidity was 10%. A defunctioning stoma was placed for 621 patients (43%); 534 of these proceeded to elective restoration of bowel continuity. The median follow-up time was 42 months. Of this cohort, a total of 415 (29%) reported persistent impairment of functional outcomes, the most frequent of which was bowel dysfunction (16%), followed by bladder dysfunction (7%), sexual dysfunction (4.5%) and infertility (1%).

Conclusion

A substantial proportion of patients with early-onset rectal cancer who undergo surgery report persistent impairment of functional status. Patients should be involved in the discussion regarding their treatment options and potential impact on quality of life. Functional outcomes should be routinely recorded as part of follow up alongside oncological parameters.

Development and evaluation of a Japanese prediction model for low anterior resection syndrome after rectal cancer surgery

Background

Low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) is the most common complication after rectal cancer resection. We aimed to identify LARS' predictive factors and construct and evaluate a predictive model for LARS.

Methods

This retrospective study included patients with rectal cancer more than 1 year after laparoscopic or robotic-assisted surgery. We administered a questionnaire to evaluate the degree of LARS. In addition, we examined clinical characteristics with univariate and multivariate analysis to identify predictive factors for major LARS. Finally, we divided the obtained data into a learning set and a validation set. We constructed a predictive model for major LARS using the learning set and assessed the predictive accuracy of the validation set.

Results

We reviewed 160 patients with rectal cancer and divided them into a learning set (n = 115) and a validation set (n = 45). Univariate and multivariate analyses in the learning set showed that male (odds ratio [OR]: 2.88, 95% confidence interval [95%CI] 1.11–8.09, p = 0.03), age < 75 years (OR: 5.87, 95%CI 1.14–47.25, p = 0.03) and tumors located < 8.5 cm from the AV (OR: 7.20, 95%CI 2.86–19.49, p < 0.01) were significantly related to major LARS. A prediction model based on the patients in the learning set was well-calibrated.

Conclusions

We found that sex, age, and tumor location were independent predictors of major LARS in Japanese patients that underwent rectal cancer surgery. Our predictive model for major LARS could aid medical staff in educating and treating patients with rectal cancer before and after surgery.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12876-022-02295-w.

Sequential assessment of bowel function and anorectal physiology after anterior resection for cancer: a prospective cohort study

AIM

The aim of this study was to investigate changes in bowel function and anorectal physiology (ARP) after anterior resection for colorectal cancer.

METHOD

Patients were recruited from November 2006 to September 2008. Cleveland Clinic Incontinence (CCI) scores and stool frequency were determined by patient questionnaires before surgery (t₀ ) and at three (t₃ ), six (t₆ ), nine (t₉ ) and 12 (t₁₂ ) months after restoration of intestinal continuity. ARP measurements were recorded at T₀ , T₃ and T₁₂ . Endoanal ultrasound was performed at T₀ and T₁₂ .

RESULTS

Eighty-nine patients were included. CCI score increased postoperatively then normalized, whereas stool frequency did not change. Patients who had neoadjuvant radiotherapy or a lower anastomosis had increased incontinence and stool frequency in the postoperative period, whereas those with defunctioning stomas or open surgery had increased stool frequency alone. Maximum resting pressure, volume at first urge and maximum rectal tolerance were reduced throughout the postoperative period. Radiotherapy, lower anastomosis and defunctioning stoma (but not operative approach) altered manometric parameters postoperatively. Maximum rectal tolerance correlated with incontinence and first urge with stool frequency. The length of the anterior internal anal sphincter decreased postoperatively.

CONCLUSIONS

Incontinence recovers in the first year after anterior resection. Radiotherapy, lower anastomosis, defunctioning stoma and open surgery have a negative influence on bowel function. ARP may be useful if bowel dysfunction persists beyond 12 months.

Permanent stoma: a quality outcome in treatment of rectal cancer and its impact on length of stay

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to identify socioeconomic predictors of permanent stoma in rectal cancer treatment and examine its association with length of stay at the treatment facility.

METHODS

Rectal cancer patients who underwent elective surgery between January 2015 and December 2018 were identified from the Agency for Health Care Administration Florida Hospital Inpatient Discharge Dataset. Multivariate regression models were utilized to identify demographic and socioeconomic factors associated with receiving a permanent stoma as well as the associated length of stay of these patients.

RESULTS

Of 2630 rectal cancer patients who underwent surgery for rectal cancer, 21% had a permanent stoma. The odds of receiving permanent stoma increased with higher Elixhauser score, metastatic disease, advanced age, having open surgery, residence in Southwest Florida, and having Medicaid insurance or no insurance/self-payers (p < 0.05). Patients with a permanent stoma had a significantly extended stay after surgery (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with a permanent stoma following cancer resection were more likely to have open surgery, had more comorbidities, and had a longer length of stay. Having permanent stoma was higher in patients living in South West Florida, patients with Medicaid insurance, and in the uninsured. Additionally, the payer type significantly affected the length of stay.

Optimising functional outcomes in rectal cancer surgery

Background

By improved surgical technique such as total mesorectal excision (TME), multimodal treatment and advances in imaging survival and an increased rate of sphincter preservation have been achieved in rectal cancer surgery. Minimal-invasive approaches such as laparoscopic, robotic and transanal-TME (ta-TME) enhance recovery after surgery. Nevertheless, disorders of bowel, anorectal and urogenital function are still common and need attention.

Purpose

This review aims at exploring the causes of dysfunction after anterior resection (AR) and the accordingly preventive strategies. Furthermore, the indication for low AR in the light of functional outcome is discussed. The last therapeutic strategies to deal with bowel, anorectal, and urogenital disorders are depicted.

Conclusion

Functional disorders after rectal cancer surgery are frequent and underestimated. More evidence is needed to define an indication for non-operative management or local excision as alternatives to AR. The decision for restorative resection should be made in consideration of the relevant risk factors for dysfunction. In the case of restoration, a side-to-end anastomosis should be the preferred anastomotic technique. Further high-evidence clinical studies are required to clarify the benefit of intraoperative neuromonitoring. While the function of ta-TME seems not to be superior to laparoscopy, case-control studies suggest the benefits of robotic TME mainly in terms of preservation of the urogenital function. Low AR syndrome is treated by stool regulation, pelvic floor therapy, and transanal irrigation. There is good evidence for sacral nerve modulation for incontinence after low AR.

The Water-Holding Procedure for Ensuring Postoperative Continence Prior Restoring Intestinal Continuity

BACKGROUND

A defunctioning stoma can become necessary in a relevant number of patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery. As a matter of course, patients seek an early closure of the stoma. However, preoperative management of these patients varies and the prediction of continence after stoma removal can become challenging. Patients might be fully continent despite low manometric pressures and vice versa. An easy and reliable way to predict continence after stoma reversal would improve patients' management and outcome. Although frequently performed in various surgical centers in Germany, there is no published data on the water-holding test. Hence, this is the first study evaluating the role of the test in clinical practice.

METHOD

We performed a prospective pilot study to evaluate the role of anorectal manometry and the water-holding procedure as a predictor of postoperative continence prior to stoma reversal. Inclusion criteria were a successfully passed water-holding test, any type of fecal diversion and the possibility of restoring intestinal continuity. Preoperative low manometric pressure levels were not an exclusion criteria for stoma reversal. Fifty-two patients with ostomy were consecutively enrolled in this study between October 2013 and February 2016. Anorectal manometry was performed in all patients prior to stoma reversal. After stoma removal, patients were followed-up for 6 months. Postoperative incontinence was determined using the Wexner incontinence score.

RESULTS

A total of 52 patients (38 males, 14 females) were included at an average age of 59 (range 33-83) years. Most frequent indications for intestinal diversion were rectal cancer surgery, IBD-related surgery, or surgery for diverticular disease. Low anterior rectal resection was performed in 17 patients (32.7%), followed by a proctocolectomy in 9 (17.3%), colectomy in 9 (17.3%), and recto-sigmoid resection in 7 patients (13.5%). Median time from stoma creation to reversal was 206 days (range 48-871 days). All patients had successfully passed the standardized water-holding test. At the same time, the majority of patients had low preoperative manometric pressure values and would normally not have been reversed at that point. The median postoperative Wexner incontinence score was at 1.5 (range 0-20), 0.5 (range 0-14), and 0 (range 0-11) at 14, 60, and 180 days after stoma reversal. Low preoperative manometric squeeze and/or resting pressure levels were not associated with a higher postoperative incontinence score at 14, 60, or 180 days after stoma reversal.

CONCLUSION

A standardized water-holding test can function as an easy and reliable method before stoma reversal to predict sufficient postoperative fecal continence. In case of a sufficient water-holding test despite low manometric pressure levels, the risk for postoperative anal incontinence seems to be low. Preoperative manometric pressure levels do not appear to predict postoperative continence.

Impact of Long-Course Neoadjuvant Radiation on Postoperative Low Anterior Resection Syndrome and Quality of Life in Rectal Cancer: Post Hoc Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Neoadjuvant radiation is recommended for locally advanced rectal cancer, with proven benefit in local control but not in disease-free survival. However, the impact of long-course radiation on postoperative bowel function and quality of life (QOL) remains controversial. This study aimed to investigate the impact of long-course neoadjuvant radiation on bowel function and QOL, and to identify risk factors for severe bowel dysfunction.

METHODS

Patients who underwent long-course neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) or chemotherapy (nCT) followed by radical low anterior resection for locally advanced rectal cancer were recruited from the FOWARC randomized controlled trial. Low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) score and European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) C30/CR29 questionnaires were used to assess bowel function and QOL, respectively.

RESULTS

Overall, 220 patients responded after a median follow-up of 40.2 months, of whom 119 (54.1%) reported major LARS, 74 (33.6%) reported minor LARS, and 27 (12.3%) reported no LARS. Compared with the nCT group, the nCRT group reported more major LARS (64.4% vs. 38.6%, p < 0.001) and worse QOL. Long-course neoadjuvant radiation (OR 2.20, 95% CI 1.24-3.91; p = 0.007), height of anastomosis (OR 0.74, 95% CI 0.63-0.88; p < 0.001), and diverting ileostomy (OR 2.59, 95% CI 1.27-5.30; p = 0.009) were independent risk factors for major LARS.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-course neoadjuvant radiation, along with low anastomosis, are likely independent risk factors for postoperative bowel function and QOL. Our findings might have implications for alleviating LARS and improving QOL by informing selection of neoadjuvant treatment.

Before and after Anorectal Surgery: Which Information Is Needed from the Functional Laboratory?

Background

Anorectal surgery covers a wide spectrum of surgery. Diagnostic workup of anorectal disease is based on clinical examination with basic functional tests followed by more elaborate diagnostic tests. Since the incidence of anorectal disorders increases with age, more patients will present in outpatient clinics, thus underlining the relevance of this topic.

Methods

A PubMed literature search was performed using the terms 'anal incontinence', 'anal and rectal surgery', 'functional diagnostics', and combinations of these terms. No restriction regarding publication year or publication type was applied but randomized trials, 'metanalyses', or guidelines were ranked higher. Only articles in English or German were included.

Results

The diagnostic value of digital rectal examination, anal manometry and endosonography, the water holding procedure, contrast enema, and incontinence scores is summarized.

Conclusion

The article focusses on basic clinical and functional diagnostic tests which can be easily applied in the pre- and postoperative setting to evaluate the postoperative outcome.

Effectiveness of Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation for Bowel Dysfunction After Intersphincteric Resection for Lower Rectal Cancer

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of pelvic floor rehabilitation (PFR) for patients with bowel dysfunction after intersphincteric resection (ISR) and to compare the treatment response to that of patients after low anterior resection (LAR).

METHODS

Thirty patients with postoperative bowel dysfunction for more than 6 months were enrolled and treated with PFR for 6 months.

RESULTS

In the ISR group, significant improvements in the number of bowel movements and the use of antidiarrheal medications were observed, but no significant improvement was observed in the Wexner score (WS) and the fecal incontinence severity index (FISI). Meanwhile, in the LAR group, WS and FISI were better post-treatment than pre-treatment (WS: 10.7-5.7; p = 0.01, FISI: 28-11; p = 0.01). In the assessment of fecal incontinence quality of life (FIQL), only the Coping/Behavior category was improved in the ISR group (1.56 before, 2.16 after PFR; p = 0.01), while all four categories were improved significantly in the LAR group. The anorectal manometric examination showed no significant increase in sphincter pressure and the tolerable volume in patients after ISR.

CONCLUSIONS

PFR improved several clinical symptoms of patients after ISR. Compared with patients after LAR, patients after ISR showed an insufficient response to PFR in improving fecal incontinence. Considering the result of the generalized assessment of the quality of life scale, PFR may offer a therapeutic effect for several symptoms of patients after ISR.

Anorectal complications after robotic intersphincteric resection for low rectal cancer

BACKGROUND

Robotic intersphincteric resection (ISR) has been introduced for sphincter-preservation in the treatment of low rectal cancer. However, many patients experience anorectal symptoms and defecatory dysfunction after ISR. This study aims to evaluate the anorectal complications that develop after ISR.

METHODS

The medical records of 108 patients who underwent robotic ISR at Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan between December 2011 and June 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. Photographic records of perineal conditions were documented at the following time intervals after surgery: 1 day, 2 weeks, 1, 2, 3 and 6 months. Clinical outcomes and treatment results were analysed.

RESULTS

Eighty-five patients (78.7%) developed edematous hemorrhoids after surgery. These subsided at a median of 56 days after operation (range 23-89 days). Forty-six patients (42.6%) were found to have anal stenosis requiring anal dilatation. Sixteen patients (14.8%) had neorectal mucosal prolapse, which was noted to occur at an average of 98 days after surgery (range 41-162 days). Multivariate analysis showed that the occurrence of edematous hemorrhoids was associated with operating time (P = 0.043), and male gender was a significant risk factor for anal stenosis (P = 0.007).

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study reporting on the clinical outcomes of anorectal status after robotic ISR. Further studies are needed to assess the long-term effects of these anorectal complications.

Long-term functional follow-up after anterior rectal resection for cancer

PURPOSE

This is a retrospective analysis including all of the patients that have undergone anterior resection for rectal cancer from January 1998 to December 2005 in two tertiary referral centers. The study aims to evaluate the long term functional results after low anterior resection and to identify the risk factors of postoperative bowel disorders.

METHOD

Data were collected from the clinical records, and then the low anterior resection syndrome score which is a specific questionnaire to investigate the symptoms after surgery was submitted to the selected patients. Exclusion criteria were intra-abdominal rectal cancer, partial mesorectal excision, permanent stoma, recurrent local disease, and patients who declined the questionnaire.

RESULTS

A total of 93 patients were included in the analysis with a median age at the diagnosis of 66 years. The median follow-up was 13.7 years, and low anterior resection syndrome was reported in 44 patients (47.5 %), with major manifestations in 19 patients (20.5 %), and minor symptoms in 25 patients (27 %). Age more than 70 years, tumor distance from the external anal verge, neoadjuvant treatment, and interval time of closing stoma are independent prognostic factors of functional disorders after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Because of its great impact on the quality of life of these patients, it is necessary to early identify the syndrome trying to reduce its manifestations. Moreover, the symptoms seem to remain stable 1 year after surgery; hence, it is important to have an exhaustive, preoperative counseling and an integrated post-operative functional and rehabilitational follow-up in association with the oncologic pathway.

Biofeedback Therapy Before Ileostomy Closure in Patients Undergoing Sphincter-Saving Surgery for Rectal Cancer: A Pilot Study

Purpose

This study prospectively investigated the effects of biofeedback therapy on objective anorectal function and subjective bowel function in patients after sphincter-saving surgery for rectal cancer.

Methods

Sixteen patients who underwent an ileostomy were randomized into two groups, one receiving conservative management with the Kegel maneuver and the other receiving active biofeedback before ileostomy closure. Among them, 12 patients (mean age, 57.5 years; range, 38 to 69 years; 6 patients in each group) completed the study. Conservative management included lifestyle modifications, Kegel exercises, and medication. Patients were evaluated at baseline and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after ileostomy closure by using anal manometry, modified Wexner Incontinence Scores (WISs), and fecal incontinence quality of life (FI-QoL) scores.

Results

Before the ileostomy closure, the groups did not differ in baseline clinical characteristics or resting manometric parameters. After 12 months of follow-up, the biofeedback group demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in the mean maximum squeezing pressure (from 146.3 to 178.9, P = 0.002). However, no beneficial effect on the WIS was noted for biofeedback compared to conservative management alone. Overall, the FI-QoL scores were increased significantly in both groups after ileostomy closure (P = 0.006), but did not differ significantly between the two groups.

Conclusion

Although the biofeedback therapy group demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in the maximum squeezing pressure, significant improvements in the WISs and the FI-QoL scores over time were noted in both groups. The study was terminated early because no therapeutic benefit of biofeedback had been demonstrated.

A review on functional results of sphincter-saving surgery for rectal cancer: the anterior resection syndrome

The aim of this review is to characterize the functional results and "anterior resection syndrome" (ARS) after sphincter-saving surgery for rectal cancer. The purpose of sphincter-saving operations is to save the anal sphincters by avoiding the need for rectal abdomino-perineal resection with a permanent stoma. A variety of alternative techniques have been proposed and, today, ultra-low anterior resections of the rectum are commonplace. Inevitably rectal resections modify anorectal physiology. The backdrop of the functional asset for ultralow anterior resections is related to a small neorectal capacity with high endo-neorectal pressures that act together on a weakened sphincteric mechanism. Sometimes a defecation disorder called ARS may be induced and the patient experiences an extremely low quality of life. Impaired bowel function is usually provoked either by colonic dysmotility, neorectal reservoir dysfunction, anal sphincter damage or by a combination of these factors. Surgical technique defects can contribute to these possible causes: anastomotic ischemia, short length of the descending colon and stretching of neorectal mesentery may play a role. Unfortunately, there is no therapeutic algorithm or gold standard treatment that may be used for ARS. Nevertheless, it is rational to use conservative therapy first and then resort to surgery. Drugs, rehabilitative treatment and sacral neuromodulation may be used; after failure of conservative methods, surgical treatment can be considered.

Low anterior resection syndrome (LARS): cause and effect and reconstructive considerations

Between 25 and 80% of patients undergoing a low or very low anterior resection will suffer postoperatively, from a constellation of symptoms including fecal urgency, frequent bowel movements, bowel fragmentation and incontinence, collectively referred to as the low anterior resection syndrome (LARS). The etiology of LARS is multifactorial with the potential of sphincter injury during anastomosis construction, alterations in anorectal physiology, the development of a pudendal neuropathy, and a lumbar plexopathy with exacerbation of symptoms if there is associated anastomotic sepsis or the use of adjuvant and neoadjuavnt therapies. The symptoms of LARS may be obviated in part by the construction of a neorectal reservoir which may take the form of a colonic J-pouch, a transverse coloplasty, or a side-to-end anastomosis. This review outlines the factors contributing to LARS symptomatology along with the short- and medium-term functional results of comparative trials with the different types of neorectal reconstructions.

Neoadjuvant treatment in rectal cancer: actual status

Neoadjuvant (preoperative) concomitant chemoradiotherapy (CRT) has become a standard treatment of locally advanced rectal adenocarcinomas. The clinical stages II (cT3-4, N0, M0) and III (cT1-4, N+, M0) according to International Union Against Cancer (IUCC) are concerned. It can reduce tumor volume and subsequently lead to an increase in complete resections (R0 resections), shows less toxicity, and improves local control rate. The aim of this review is to summarize actual approaches, main problems, and discrepancies in the treatment of locally advanced rectal adenocarcinomas.

Sexual and urinary functioning after rectal surgery: a prospective comparative study with a median follow-up of 8.5 years

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to prospectively compare rectal resection (RR) with colonic resection on sexual, urinary and bowel function and quality of life in both short-term and long-term.

METHODS

Eighty-three patients who underwent RR were compared to 53 patients who underwent a colonic resection leaving the rectum in situ (RIS). A questionnaire assessing sexual, urinary and bowel functioning with a quality of life questionnaire (SF-36) was sent to all participants preoperatively, 3 and 12 months postoperatively and approximately 8 years after the onset of the study.

RESULTS

Short-term dysfunction included diminished sexual activity in female RR patients at 3 months and significantly more erectile dysfunction in RR patients 1 year postoperatively. Long-term dysfunction included more frequent and more severe erectile dysfunction in RR patients compared to RIS patients. These short-term and long-term outcomes did not influence overall quality of life. The incidence of urinary dysfunction was comparable between both groups. Bowel functioning was significantly better in the RIS group compared to the RR group 3 months and 1 year postoperatively.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients who underwent RR experienced up to 1 year postoperatively more sexual and bowel function problems than RIS patients. However, short-term and long-term dysfunction did not influence overall quality of life. Erectile dysfunction in male RR patients persisted in time, whereas other aspects of sexual, urinary and bowel function after RR and colonic resection are similar after a median follow-up of 8.5 years.

The role of 5-HT3 and 5-HT4 receptors in the adaptive mechanism of colonic transit following the parasympathetic denervation in rats

BACKGROUND

Clinical studies show that disturbed colonic motility induced by extrinsic nerves damage is restored over time. We studied whether 5-HT3 and 5HT4 receptors are involved in mediating the adaptive mechanisms following parasympathetic denervation.

METHODS

Parasympathetic denervation of the entire colon was achieved by bilateral pelvic nerve transection and truncal vagotomy in rats. Colonic transit was measured by calculating the geometric center (GC) of 51Cr distribution. Expression of 5-HT3 and 5HT4 receptor mRNA was determined by real time RT-PCR.

RESULTS

Parasympathetic denervation caused a significant delay in colonic transit (GC=4.36) at postoperative day (POD) 1, compared with sham operation (GC=6.31). Delayed transit was gradually restored by POD 7 (GC=5.99) after the denervation. Restored colonic transit was antagonized by the administration of 5-HT3 and 5HT4 receptors antagonists at POD 7. 5-HT3 and 5HT4 receptors mRNA expression were significantly increased in the mucosal/submucosal layer at POD 3 or POD 7, whereas no significant difference was observed in the longitudinal muscle layers adherent with the myenteric plexus (LMMP).

CONCLUSIONS

It is suggested that up-regulation of 5-HT3 and 5-HT4 receptors expression in the mucosal/submucosal layer is involved to restore the delayed transit after the parasympathetic denervation in rats.

The role of 5-HT3 and 5-HT4 receptors in the adaptive mechanism of colonic transit following the parasympathetic denervation in rats

BACKGROUND

Clinical studies show that disturbed colonic motility induced by extrinsic nerves damage is restored over time. We studied whether 5-HT3 and 5HT4 receptors are involved in mediating the adaptive mechanisms following parasympathetic denervation.

METHODS

Parasympathetic denervation of the entire colon was achieved by bilateral pelvic nerve transection and truncal vagotomy in rats. Colonic transit was measured by calculating the geometric center (GC) of 51Cr distribution. Expression of 5-HT3 and 5HT4 receptor mRNA was determined by real time RT-PCR.

RESULTS

Parasympathetic denervation caused a significant delay in colonic transit (GC=4.36) at postoperative day (POD) 1, compared with sham operation (GC=6.31). Delayed transit was gradually restored by POD 7 (GC=5.99) after the denervation. Restored colonic transit was antagonized by the administration of 5-HT3 and 5HT4 receptors antagonists at POD 7. 5-HT3 and 5HT4 receptors mRNA expression were significantly increased in the mucosal/submucosal layer at POD 3 or POD 7, whereas no significant difference was observed in the longitudinal muscle layers adherent with the myenteric plexus (LMMP).

CONCLUSIONS

It is suggested that up-regulation of 5-HT3 and 5-HT4 receptors expression in the mucosal/submucosal layer is involved to restore the delayed transit after the parasympathetic denervation in rats.

Effect of neoadjuvant chemoradiation on postoperative fecal continence and anal sphincter function in rectal cancer patients

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Neoadjuvant chemoradiation (nCRT) followed by curative surgery has gained acceptance as the therapy of choice in locally advanced rectal cancer. This prospective study evaluates the effect of nCRT on postoperative anorectal function and continence.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Group A consisted of 12 patients (59.8 +/- 11.9 years, male:female = 8:4) who received nCRT (5-FU, CPT-11. 45 + 5.4 Gy boost) before surgery and Group B of 27 patients (61.9 +/- 10.6 years, male:female = 16:11) who were treated by surgery alone. All patients received a questionnaire to evaluate stool continence and anorectal function before as well as after surgery. Anorectal function was further analyzed by perfusion manometry pre- and postoperatively.

RESULTS

Preoperatively, none of the patients had signs or symptoms of fecal incontinence, and preoperative measurements showed values within normal limits. Postoperatively, fecal continence was impaired in both groups, but no significant difference was found between patients with or without nCRT. Anorectal manometry revealed an impairment of anorectal function after low anterior resection regardless of the treatment regime.

CONCLUSION

nCRT does not impair anorectal function and fecal continence. The deterioration of continence and anal sphincter function after sphincter preserving surgery is solely caused by the surgical procedure.

Functional results after radiochemotherapy and total mesorectal excision for rectal cancer

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to prospectively define and measure evacuation and continence disorders after preoperative radiochemotherapy and total mesorectal excision (TME) for rectal cancer 1 year after surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We submitted 100 patients, who underwent neoadjuvant treatment and anterior resection with TME from 1996 to 2003, to a questionnaire on postoperative continence and evacuation. Anal sphincter function was further assessed by the Memorial Sloan-Kettering score. Factors influencing anorectal function were examined in univariate and multivariate analysis.

RESULTS

Median evacuation score was 16.12 +/- 5.12 (range 0-28). Sensation of incomplete evacuation was reported in 58% of cases, necessity to return to the bathroom <15 min in 37% and inability to evacuate completely <15 min in 35%. Median continence score was 13.7 +/- 4.79 (range 0-20). Incontinence to flatus was reported in 46% of cases. Colonic J-pouch allows better evacuation and continence. Continence was also better in absence of postoperative complications. Sphincter function resulted excellent or good in 75% of patients according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering score.

CONCLUSIONS

The most frequent symptoms in our series are the sensation of incomplete evacuation, the incontinence to flatus, and the necessity to return to the bathroom <15 min. Colonic J-pouch warrants a better function. Postoperative complications compromise good functional results.

Effects of radiation upon gastrointestinal motility

Whether due to therapeutic or belligerent exposure, the gastrointestinal effects of irradiation produce symptoms dreaded by a majority of the population. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal cramping are hallmarks of the prodromal phase of radiation sickness, occurring hours to days following radiation exposure. The prodromal phase is distinct from acute radiation sickness in that the absorptive, secretory and anatomic changes associated with radiation damage are not easily identifiable. It is during this phase of radiation sickness that gastrointestinal motility significantly changes. In addition, there is evidence that motor activity of the gut contributes to some of the acute and chronic effects of radiation.

The effect of neo-rectal wall properties on functional outcome after colonic J-pouch-anal anastomosis

BACKGROUND/AIMS

It has been suggested that normal function of both anal sphincters is essential for a good functional outcome after colonic J-pouch-anal anastomosis (CPAA). However, CPAA patients may have impaired continence despite adequate sphincter function. The present study was designed to identify those factors, which contribute to the functional outcome after a handsewn CPAA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty patients were studied before and 1 year after pouch surgery. Faecal continence was evaluated using the Rockwood faecal incontinence severity index (RFISI). At both occasions, maximum anal resting pressure (MARP) and maximum anal squeeze pressure (MASP) were recorded. In addition, sensory perception threshold-volumes (SPT-V) and compliance were assessed using an 'infinitely' compliant polyethylene bag connected to an electronic barostat assembly.

RESULTS

The median RFISI score 1 year after surgery was higher than the median RFISI score before surgery (13 vs 7 (p < 0.01). The median MARP dropped significantly (p < 0.01) whereas the median MASP remained unaffected. The mean compliance, calculated at three different sensation levels, and the pouch sensory perception threshold-volumes (PSPT-V) were lower than those of the original rectum (p < 0.05). The reduction of MARP showed no correlation with the post-operative change in RFISI scores. Low PC and low PSPT-V were associated with higher RFISI scores.

CONCLUSION

Low pouch compliance and low SPT-V adversely affect functional outcome after a handsewn colonic J-pouch-anal anastomosis.

Development and validation of a colorectal functional outcome questionnaire

BACKGROUND

After colorectal surgery, patients often experience impaired functional outcome. Faecal incontinence grading systems and self-assessment questionnaires are frequently used to assess these complaints. The available faecal incontinence grading systems have been validated, but have a limited focus, while more comprehensive questionnaires, which have been developed, have not been validated.

AIMS

To investigate the reliability and validity of a newly developed, colorectal functional outcome (COREFO) questionnaire and of Dutch translations of the Hallböök questionnaire and an adapted version of the Vaizey questionnaire.

PATIENT/METHODS

Two hundred fifty-seven patients with and without impaired functional outcome after (colorectal) surgery received a booklet containing the three questionnaires in random order by mail. One hundred seventy-nine (70%) completed them, and 160 patients (90%) completed a retest within, on average, 18 days.

RESULTS/FINDINGS

Reliability and validity were adequate for the COREFO and Hallböök questionnaire, with slight differences in the psychometric analyses in favour of the COREFO questionnaire. Significantly more patients found the COREFO questionnaire to reflect their problems best. The reliability of the Vaizey questionnaire was not sufficient.

INTERPRETATION/CONCLUSIONS

The newly developed COREFO questionnaire and the previously unvalidated Hallböök questionnaire are both suitable instruments to evaluate functional outcome after colorectal surgery. The psychometric analyses showed a slight difference in favour of the COREFO questionnaire and significantly more patients preferred the COREFO questionnaire to the other questionnaires. Therefore, we prefer to use the COREFO questionnaire in future research.