Gastroenterology integration in specialized clinics for late complications after colorectal cancer surgery

Abstract

The integration of gastroenterology expertise in clinics managing late complications of colorectal and anal cancer surgery is an advancement in patient care. This paper explores the multifaceted role of gastroenterologists in such settings, emphasizing diagnostic evaluation, personalized treatment planning, and the management of complex gastrointestinal symptoms. There is an obvious necessity for gastroenterological expertise to address complex issues such as diarrhea, malabsorption, discomfort, pain, bleeding, and incontinence, which are frequently under-treated in routine colorectal surgical outpatient care. In the article, we give recommendations for initial assessment, diagnostic workup, treatment strategies, follow-up, and monitoring of these issues. Highlighting the importance of a multidisciplinary approach, we discuss how gastroenterologists contribute to improved treatment outcomes and patient quality of life after surgery for colorectal and anal cancer.