Stapled trans-anal rectal resection (STARR) for the surgical treatment of obstructed defecation syndrome associated with rectocele and rectal intussusception

Abstract

Obstructed defecation syndrome (ODS) is one of the most widespread clinical problems which frequently affect middle - aged females. There is a new surgical technique called stapled trans-anal rectal resection, (STARR) which makes it possible to remove the anorectal mucosa circumferential and reinforce the anterior anorectal junction wall with the use of a circular stapler. This surgical technique developed by Antonio Longo, was proposed as an effective alternative for the treatment of ODS. In this study we present our preliminary results with the STARR operation for the treatment of ODS. For this purpose, 40 consecutive female patients with ODS due to rectal intussusception (RI) and/or rectocele (RE),were recruited in this prospective clinical study, from May 2008 to October 2010. No major operative or postoperative complications were recorded, and after 12-months follow-up, significant improvement in the ODS score system was observed. The symptoms of constipation improved in 90% of patients, 20% of patients judged their final clinical outcome as excellent, 55% as good, 15% as moderate, with only 10% having poor results. After analyzing our results we can conclude that STARR is an effective and safe procedure for the treatment of obstructed defecation syndrome due to rectal intussusception and/or rectocele, and can be performed safely without major morbidity.