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Lambrineas LJ, Brock HG, Ong HI, Tisseverasinghe S, Carrington E, Heriot A, Burgess A, Proud D, Mohan H. Challenges in evaluating pelvic floor physiotherapy based strategies in low anterior resection syndrome: a systematic review and qualitative analysis. Colorectal Dis 2024; 26:258-271. [PMID: 38173138 DOI: 10.1111/codi.16839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
AIM Physiotherapy is an established treatment strategy for low anterior resection syndrome (LARS). However, data on its efficacy are limited. This is in part due to the inherent challenges in study design in this context. This systematic review aims to analyse the methodology of studies using pelvic floor physiotherapy for treatment of LARS to elucidate the challenges and limitations faced, which may inform the design of future prospective trials. METHODOLOGY A systematic review of the literature was undertaken through MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane Library, yielding 345 unique records for screening. Five studies were identified for review. Content thematic analysis of study limitations was carried out using the Braun and Clarke method. Line-by-line coding was used to organize implicit and explicit challenges and limitations under broad organizing categories. RESULTS Key challenges fell into five overarching categories: patient-related issues, cancer-related issues, adequate symptomatic control, intervention-related issues and measurement of outcomes. Adherence, attrition and randomization contributed to potential bias within these studies, with imbalance in the baseline patient characteristics, particularly gender and baseline pelvic floor function scores. Outcome measurements consisted of patient-reported measures and quality of life measures, where significant improvements in bowel function according to patient-reported outcome measures were not reflected in the quality of life scores. CONCLUSION Upcoming trial design in the area of pelvic floor physiotherapy for faecal incontinence related to rectal cancer surgery can be cognisant of and design around the challenges identified in this systematic review, including the reduction of bias, exclusion of the placebo effect and the potential cultural differences in attitude towards a sensitive intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren J Lambrineas
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Austin Health, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Henry G Brock
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Austin Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Hwa Ian Ong
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Austin Health, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | | | - Alexander Heriot
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Austin Health, Melbourne, Australia
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Adele Burgess
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Austin Health, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - David Proud
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Austin Health, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Helen Mohan
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Austin Health, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
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Brock H, Lambrineas L, Ong HI, Chen WY, Das A, Edsell A, Proud D, Carrington E, Smart P, Mohan H, Burgess A. Preventative strategies for low anterior resection syndrome. Tech Coloproctol 2023; 28:10. [PMID: 38091118 DOI: 10.1007/s10151-023-02872-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A common and debilitating complication of low anterior resection for rectal cancer is low anterior resection syndrome (LARS). As a multifactorial entity, LARS is poorly understood and challenging to treat. Despite this, prevention strategies are commonly overlooked. Our aim was to review the pathophysiology of LARS and explore current evidence on the efficacy and feasibility of prophylactic techniques. METHODS A literature review was performed between [1st January 2000 to 1st October 2023] for studies which investigated preventative interventions for LARS. Mechanisms by which LARS develop are described, followed by a review of prophylactic strategies to prevent LARS. Medline, Cochrane, and PubMed databases were searched, 189 articles screened, 8 duplicates removed and 18 studies reviewed. RESULTS Colonic dysmotility, anal sphincter dysfunction and neorectal dysfunction all contribute to the development of LARS, with the complex mechanism of defecation interrupted by surgery. Transanal irrigation (TAI) and pelvic floor rehabilitation (PFR) have shown benefits in preventing LARS, but may be limited by patient compliance. Intraoperative nerve monitoring (IONM) and robotic-assisted surgery have shown some promise in surgically preventing LARS. Nerve stimulation and other novel strategies currently used in treatment of LARS have yet to be investigated in their roles prophylactically. CONCLUSIONS To date, there is a limited evidence base for all preventative strategies including IONM, RAS, PFP and TAI. These strategies are limited by either access (IONM, RAS and PFP) or acceptability (PFP and TAI), which are both key to the success of any intervention. The results of ongoing trials will serve to assess acceptability, while technological advancement may improve access to some of the aforementioned strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Brock
- Austin Health, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Austin Health, Melbourne, Australia
- Western General, Melbourne, Australia
| | - L Lambrineas
- Austin Health, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - H I Ong
- Austin Health, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Austin Health, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - W Y Chen
- Austin Health, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - A Das
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Austin Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - A Edsell
- Austin Health, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - D Proud
- Austin Health, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Austin Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - P Smart
- Austin Health, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Austin Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - H Mohan
- Austin Health, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Austin Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - A Burgess
- Austin Health, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Austin Health, Melbourne, Australia
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Nakashima Y, Fudeyasu K, Kataoka Y, Taito S, Ariie T, Mikami Y. Efficacy of Pelvic Floor Muscle Training for Postoperative Patients With Rectal Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Cureus 2023; 15:e50287. [PMID: 38205462 PMCID: PMC10776499 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.50287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) for fecal incontinence (FI) and health-related quality of life (HR-QOL) after colorectal cancer surgery. This systematic review (SR) and meta-analysis included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that examined the effects of PFMT after colorectal cancer surgery, which were extracted from several databases in January 2023. The primary outcomes were FI (Wexner scores), HR-QOL, and adverse events. We used the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach to assess the certainty of evidence (CoE). A total of seven RCTs were included. Our SR results suggested that PFMT showed little to no difference in FI (mean difference 0.62 higher; 95% CI: -1.26 to 2.5, low CoE) and adverse events (risk ratio 5.78; 95% CI: 0.28-117.22, low CoE). Two adverse events occurred in the PFMT group (anastomotic stenosis, suboptimal use of laxatives) and were not observed in controls. HR-QOL was measured in two RCTs using 12-item Short Form Survey (SF-12) and fecal incontinence quality of life (FIQL). Two RCTs found no trend toward a positive impact on HR-QOL. Higher quality RCTs on colorectal cancer after surgery are required. Furthermore, extending the duration of the PFMT intervention may be necessary to ensure its success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Nakashima
- Division of Rehabilitation, Department of Clinical Practice and Support, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, JPN
- Department of Systematic Reviewers, Scientific Research WorkS Peer Support Group (SRWS-PSG), Osaka, JPN
| | - Kenichi Fudeyasu
- Division of Rehabilitation, Department of Clinical Practice and Support, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, JPN
| | - Yuki Kataoka
- Department of Systematic Reviewers, Scientific Research WorkS Peer Support Group (SRWS-PSG), Osaka, JPN
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kyoto Min-iren Asukai Hospital, Kyoto, JPN
- Section of Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Community Medicine, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, JPN
- Department of Healthcare Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, JPN
| | - Shunsuke Taito
- Division of Rehabilitation, Department of Clinical Practice and Support, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, JPN
- Department of Systematic Reviewers, Scientific Research WorkS Peer Support Group (SRWS-PSG), Osaka, JPN
| | - Takashi Ariie
- Department of Systematic Reviewers, Scientific Research WorkS Peer Support Group (SRWS-PSG), Osaka, JPN
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Health Sciences at Fukuoka, International University of Health and Welfare, Fukuoka, JPN
| | - Yukio Mikami
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, JPN
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Cianci S, Tarascio M, Arcieri M, La Verde M, Martinelli C, Capozzi VA, Palmara V, Gulino F, Gueli Alletti S, Caruso G, Restaino S, Vizzielli G, Conte C, Palumbo M, Ercoli A. Post Treatment Sexual Function and Quality of Life of Patients Affected by Cervical Cancer: A Systematic Review. Medicina (B Aires) 2023; 59:medicina59040704. [PMID: 37109662 PMCID: PMC10144819 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59040704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The aim of this study is to analyze the available scientific evidence regarding the quality of life (QoL) and sexual function (SF) in patients affected by cervical cancer (CC) after surgical and adjuvant treatments. Materials and Methods: Preliminary research was conducted via electronic database (MEDLINE, PubMed and Cochrane Library) with the use of a combination of the following keywords: SF, QoL, and CC. The principal findings considered in the present review were the study design, the number of patients included in each study, the information about the malignancy (histology and stage of disease), the questionnaires administered, and the principal findings concerning SF and QoL. Results: All studies were published between 2003–2022. The studies selected consisted of one randomized control study, seven observational studies (three prospective series), and nine case control studies. The scores used were focused on SF, QOL, fatigue, and psychological aspects. All studies reported a decreased SF and QOL. The most developed questionnaires were the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30), the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale (HADS), and the Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS). Discussion: All studies reported a decreased SF and QOL. In addition to the perception of body image, several factors coexist in influencing the outcomes such as the physical, hormonal, psychological. Conclusions: Sexual dysfunction after CC treatment has a multifactorial aetiology which negatively affects the quality of life. For these reasons, it is important to follow and support patients with a multidisciplinary team (doctors, nurses, psychologists, dieticians) before and after therapy. This type of tailored therapeutic approach should become a standard. Women should be informed about possible vaginal changes and menopausal symptoms after surgery and on the positive effects of psychological therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Cianci
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Department of Human Pathology of Adult and Childhood “G. Barresi”, University of Messina, 98124 Messina, Italy
| | - Mattia Tarascio
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Department of Woman and Child, Azienda Sanitaria Provinciale di Catania, 95124 Catania, Italy
| | - Martina Arcieri
- Department of Biomedical, Dental, Morphological and Functional Imaging Science, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy
- Department of Medical Area (DAME), Clinic of Obstretics and Gynecology “Santa Maria della Misericordia”, University Hospital Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Marco La Verde
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Department of Woman, Child and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Canio Martinelli
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Department of Human Pathology of Adult and Childhood “G. Barresi”, University of Messina, 98124 Messina, Italy
| | - Vito Andrea Capozzi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University Hospital of Parma, 43125 Parma, Italy
| | - Vittorio Palmara
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Department of Human Pathology of Adult and Childhood “G. Barresi”, University of Messina, 98124 Messina, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Gulino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Azienda di Rilievo Nazionale e di Alta Specializzazione (ARNAS) Garibaldi Nesima, 95124 Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Gueli Alletti
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Department of Woman and Child, Ospedale Buccheri La Ferla Fatebenefratelli, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Caruso
- Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, Gynecological Clinic, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Stefano Restaino
- Department of Medical Area (DAME), Clinic of Obstretics and Gynecology “Santa Maria della Misericordia”, University Hospital Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Vizzielli
- Department of Medical Area (DAME), Clinic of Obstretics and Gynecology “Santa Maria della Misericordia”, University Hospital Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale, University of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Carmine Conte
- Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, Gynecological Clinic, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Marco Palumbo
- Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, Gynecological Clinic, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Alfredo Ercoli
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Department of Human Pathology of Adult and Childhood “G. Barresi”, University of Messina, 98124 Messina, Italy
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Management of Low Anterior Resection Syndrome (LARS) Following Resection for Rectal Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15030778. [PMID: 36765736 PMCID: PMC9913853 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15030778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A total of 60-80% of patients undergoing rectal resection (mostly as a treatment for rectal cancer) suffer from a variety of partly severe functional problems despite preservation of the anal sphincter. These patients are summarized under the term low anterior resection syndrome (LARS). Preoperative radiotherapy, vascular dissection and surgical excision of the low rectum and mesorectum lead, alone or all together, to a significant impairment of colonic and (neo-) rectal motility. This results in a variety of symptoms (multiple defecation episodes, recurrent episodes of urge, clustering, incontinence, etc.) which are associated with severe impairment of quality of life (QOL). METHODS This narrative review summarizes the present state of knowledge regarding the pathophysiology of LARS as well as the evidence for the available treatment options to control the symptoms resulting from this condition. RESULTS A review of the literature (Medline, Pubmed) reveals a variety of treatment options available to control symptoms of LARS. Medical therapy, with or without dietary modification, shows only a modest effect. Pelvic floor rehabilitation consisting of muscle exercise techniques as well as biofeedback training has been associated with improvement in LARS scores and incontinence, albeit with limited scientific evidence. Transanal irrigation (TAI) has gained interest as a treatment modality for patients with LARS due to an increasing number of promising data from recently published studies. Despite this promising observation, open questions about still-unclear issues of TAI remain under debate. Neuromodulation has been applied in LARS only in a few studies with small numbers of patients and partly conflicting results. CONCLUSION LARS is a frequent problem after sphincter-preserving rectal surgery and leads to a marked impairment of QOL. Due to the large number of patients suffering from this condition, mandatory identification, as well as treatment of affected patients, must be considered during surgical as well as oncological follow-up. The use of a standardized treatment algorithm will lead to sufficient control of symptoms and a high probability of a marked improvement in QOL.
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Yanting Z, Xv D, Long W, Wang J, Tang C, Feng M, Li X, Wang B, Zhong J. Experience and coping strategies of bowel dysfunction in postoperative patients with rectal cancer: a systematic review of qualitative evidence. PeerJ 2023; 11:e15037. [PMID: 36992944 PMCID: PMC10042155 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.15037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim Due to the changes of bowel physiological structure and functional disorders after rectal cancer surgery, patients will face many bowel dysfunction for a long time, which will greatly affect their quality of life. The purpose of this review is to integrate the qualitative research on the experience of bowel dysfunction and coping strategies in postoperative patients with rectal cancer. Methods Systematic retrieval of PubMed, EMbase, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Web of Sciences, PsycINFO, Willey and other databases was carried out by using the method of subject words and keywords. The Critical Appraisal Skill Programme (CASP) Qualitative Studies Checklist was used for Qualitative assessment. The findings were extracted from the included study and synthesized into the final themes, which was evaluated strictly in accordance with the ConQual process. Results Nine studies involving 345 participants were included and two main themes were extracted: "Experience a series of changes caused by bowel dysfunction" and "nmet needs and coping strategies facing bowel dysfunction". The changes of rectal cancer patients who experience bowel dysfunction after operation mainly include three parts: bowel dysfunction is more than just a bowel reaction, which covers the bowel symptoms themselves and the subsequent body-related symptoms. The interruption of a normal life, mainly reflected in personal, family, and social life. Complex psychological reactions to bowel dysfunction, psychological changes have a dual nature, showing a positive and negative intertwined. There are two main aspects of unmet needs and coping strategies: the demand is mainly manifested in the need for information and support from medical professionals, while the coping strategy mainly includes diet, activity and drug management. Conclusion Rectal cancer patient often experience persistent bowel dysfunction after operation, which has a certain physical and mental effects. A series of new needs of postoperative patients are often not fully met, and patients often rely on their own empirical attempts to seek balance, less can get professional support. Future studies need to focus on how to provide continuous information support for postoperative rectal cancer patients, especially professional care from health care staff.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhang Yanting
- Department of Nursing, Wuhan University Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Dandan Xv
- Department of Nursing, Wuhan University Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenjia Long
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jingyi Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Chen Tang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Maohui Feng
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xuanfei Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Bei Wang
- Department of Nursing, Wuhan University Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Jun Zhong
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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Luo B, Li C, Zhu Y, Qiu X, Li L, Pan Z, Yang X, Zheng M. Impact of defecation dysfunction on quality of life in mid-low rectal cancer patients following sphincter-sparing surgery. Asia Pac J Oncol Nurs 2022; 9:100088. [PMID: 35990023 PMCID: PMC9386386 DOI: 10.1016/j.apjon.2022.100088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives A large proportion of mid-low rectal cancer patients develop low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) after Sphincter-sparing surgery. This study aimed to investigate the effect of low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) on quality of life (QoL) in Chinese rectal cancer patients following sphincter-sparing surgery. Methods This was a comparative cross-sectional study. Between Jan 2019 to Jun 2020, 146 mid-low rectal cancer patients following sphincter-sparing surgery were enrolled. The low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) score was used to assess bowel dysfunction. According to the LARS score, patients were divided into three levels, no LARS (n = 34), minor LARS (n = 60), and major LARS (n = 52). The Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Colorectal (FACT-C) was used to assess the QoL of the patients. Results The major LARS group had a significantly shorter level of tumor from the dentate line than the no LARS group. The total FACT-C score of 146 patients was 98.45 ± 17.83. The total FACT-C score and the score of each dimension (physical, emotional, functional dimensions, and colorectal cancer subscale) were significantly different between the minor LARS and major LARS groups, as well as between the no LARS and major LARS groups. Subgroups analyses of the FACT-C score stratified by each item in the LARS scales showed that except for flatus incontinence, patients with different frequencies of other symptoms (bowel frequency, liquid stool incontinence, liquid stool incontinence, stool clustering, urgent bowel movement) had a significantly different total score of FACT (all P < 0.01). Conclusions The LARS had a significant impact on the QoL in Chinese mid-low rectal cancer patients following sphincter-sparing surgery, especially in patients with major LARS.
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