Anorectal Dysfunction Research Articles

Prevalence and Pathophysiology of Loose Stools and Their Impact on Clinical Severity and Quality of Life in Women With Fecal Incontinence.

To compare the impact of fecal consistency with anorectal sphincter dysfunctions on clinical severity and quality of life (QoL) in women with fecal incontinence (FI). FI affects up to 24% of middle-aged women, significantly impacting their QoL. Pathophysiological studies have focused more on sphincter and anorectal dysfunctions than on the role of fecal consistency. A cross-sectional observational study evaluating anorectal physiology, neurophysiology, and fecal consistency with regard to clinical severity and QoL. Patients with a Bristol Stool Chart (BSC) score of 5 or more (BSC ≥5) underwent a breath test to detect bacterial overgrowth (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth), lactose or fructose/sorbitol malabsorption, and/or a cholestyramine test to detect bile acid malabsorption. We compared anorectal physiology, clinical severity, and QoL of those with BSC ≥5 with BSC <5. The study included 150 women with an average age of 64.81 ± 11.96. FI types varied: 64.38% had urge FI, 15.06% had passive FI, and 19.18% had both. Among them, 56.2% had BSC ≥5, linked to bile acid malabsorption (20.5%), lactose malabsorption (17.9%), small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (14.3%), and fructose/sorbitol malabsorption (14.3%). Anorectal dysfunctions were highly prevalent, with 49.1% showing external anal sphincter insufficiency, 9.8% internal, and 34.7% both. Those with BSC ≥5 experienced significantly worse clinical severity and QoL (St. Mark 17.3 ± 2.69 vs 12.9 ± 3.27), and more pronounced issues in Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life Scale dimensions of lifestyle, coping, depression, and EuroQol 5-dimension of anxiety/depression and pain/discomfort. Fecal consistency of BSC ≥5 significantly worsens clinical severity and QoL in women with FI. Specific diagnostic and therapeutic approaches addressing loose stools are needed before any rehabilitation treatment.

Pelvic Floor Ultrasound Findings and Symptoms of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction During Pregnancy.

Pregnancy and childbirth predispose to pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD), coinciding with functional and anatomical changes in the pelvic floor. To some extent, these can be assessed by transperineal ultrasound (TPUS), yet the correlation between ultrasound findings and symptoms has not been well elucidated. We hypothesised that pregnant women with PFD would show different findings at TPUS. This is a planned secondary analysis of a prospective cohort study. Pregnant women were asked to fill out standardised questionnaires on PFD and undergo TPUS at 12-14weeks and 28-32weeks of gestation. We compared bladder neck descent, urethral rotation, retrovesical angle, pelvic organ descent, genital hiatus dimensions and the presence of anal sphincter defects between women with and those without PFD using t test and Fisher's exact test. Linear mixed-effects models were used to assess the correlation between TPUS findings and PFD severity. As this is a secondary subgroup analysis of participants who underwent TPUS, no sample size was determined upfront. At Valsalva, women with urinary incontinence had more pronounced bladder neck descent (p = 0.02) and urethral rotation (p < 0.01), as well as wider retrovesical angles (p = 0.04) and larger genital hiatus areas (p < 0.01). After controlling for age, BMI and parity, the retrovesical angle was the only persistent predictor of urinary incontinence. No correlation was observed between any TPUS marker and symptoms of either prolapse or anorectal dysfunction. In pregnant women, symptoms of urinary incontinence, but not of prolapse and anorectal dysfunction, are associated with differences in pelvic floor anatomy at TPUS.

Retrospective analysis of 3a obstetric anal sphincter injury repairs in a teaching hospital: Subjective and objective outcomes

IntroductionThe Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) recommends offering elective caesarean sections (CS) to patients with anorectal dysfunction, or abnormal endoanal ultrasonography (EAUSS) or anal manometry following obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI) for subsequent deliveries. (1) Asymptomatic OASI patients however, are not always offered these investigations due to limited access to diagnostic resources across the United Kingdom, particularly those with 3a tears. This paper reviews subjective and objective outcomes in women with 3a tears and aims to add to the body of literature supporting good practice and management of these patients. ObjectivesIdentify the incidence of defects in patients with 3a tears following a primary repair and compare the rate and extent of defects found on EAUSS between symptomatic and asymptomatic women. Study DesignWe performed a retrospective study of 69 women following primary repair of 3a OASI tears in a tertiary referral perineal clinic between January 2020 and December 2022. Symptoms were evaluated using the St Mark’s Score for anal incontinence (SMI) and Starck score for defects on EAUSS. Findings were analyzed using R Foundation Statistical Software (version 4.2.2, 2022). ResultsOut of the total, 42 % (29/69) had defects on EAUSS and 30 % (21/69) of women were symptomatic. Thirty eight percent (18/48) of asymptomatic women were noted to have defects compared with 52 % (11/21) of symptomatic patients. Majority of defects were situated in the upper and mid anal canal (69 %) either as <1 hr or >3 hr hypoechoic areas. There was no significant difference in Starck score (2.23 v 1.53, p = 0.46) between the two groups but those delivered by forceps (p = 0.004) and Asian ethnicity (p = 0.01) were more likely to be symptomatic. ConclusionEAUSS should be offered to all patients following an OASI as symptoms alone are not predictive of anorectal compromise in structure and/or function. Asymptomatic patients with 3a tears should be informed that there is up to a 40% chance of finding a defect on EAUSS.

Prevalence of sarcopenia in women with anorectal dysfunctions compared with a control group

Prevalence of sarcopenia in women with anorectal dysfunctions compared with a control group

Muscle regeneration therapy using dedifferentiated fat cell (DFAT) for anal sphincter dysfunction.

We investigated the effects of mouse-derived DFAT on the myogenic differentiation of a mouse-derived myoblast cell line (C2C12) and examined the therapeutic effects of rat-derived DFAT on anal sphincter injury using a rat model. C2C12 cells were cultured using DMEM and DFAT-conditioned medium (DFAT-CM), evaluating MyoD and Myogenin gene expression via RT-PCR. DFAT was locally administered to model rats with anorectal sphincter dysfunction 3days post-CTX injection. Therapeutic effects were assessed through functional assessment, including anal pressure measurement using solid-state manometry pre/post-CTX, and on days 1, 3, 7, 10, 14, 17, and 21 post-DFAT administration. Histological evaluation involved anal canal excision on days 1, 3, 7, 14, and 21 after CTX administration, followed by hematoxylin-eosin staining. C2C12 cells cultured with DFAT-CM exhibited increased MyoD and Myogenin gene expression compared to control. Anal pressure measurements revealed early recovery of resting pressure in the DFAT-treated group. Histologically, DFAT-treated rats demonstrated an increase in mature muscle cells within newly formed muscle fibers on days 14 and 21 after CTX administration, indicating enhanced muscle tissue repair. DFAT demonstrated the potential to enhance histological and functional muscle tissue repair.These findings propose DFAT as a novel therapeutic approach for anorectal sphincter dysfunction treatment.

Effect of neoadjuvant chemoradiation on anorectal function assessed with anorectal manometry: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Improvement in oncological survival for rectal cancer increases attention to anorectal dysfunction. Diagnostic questionnaires can evaluate quality of life but are subjective and dependent on patients' compliance. Anorectal manometry can objectively assess the continence mechanism and identify functional sphincter weakness and rectal compliance. Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy is presumed to affect anorectal function. We aim to assess anorectal function in rectal cancer patients who undergo total mesorectal excision, with or without neoadjuvant chemoradiation, using anorectal manometry measurements. MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane databases were searched for studies comparing perioperative anorectal manometry between neoadjuvant chemoradiation and upfront surgery for rectal cancers. Primary outcomes were resting pressure, squeeze pressure, sensory threshold volume and maximal tolerable volume. Eight studies were included in the systematic review, of which seven were included for metanalysis. 155 patients (45.3%) had neoadjuvant chemoradiation before definitive surgery, and 187 (54.6%) underwent upfront surgery. Most patients were male (238 vs. 118). The standardized mean difference of mean resting pressure, mean and maximum squeeze pressure, maximum resting pressure, sensory threshold volume, and maximal tolerable volume favored the upfront surgery group but without statistical significance. Currently available evidence on anorectal manometry protocols failed to show any statistically significant differences in functional outcomes between neoadjuvant chemoradiation and upfront surgery. Further large-scale prospective studies with standardized neoadjuvant chemoradiation and anorectal manometry protocols are needed to validate these findings.

Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation After Rectal Cancer Surgery One-year follow-up of a Multicenter Randomized Clinical Trial (FORCE trial).

This study aims to evaluate the effects of pelvic floor rehabilitation (PFR) after low anterior resection (LAR) at one-year follow-up. After LAR, with restoration of bowel continuity, up to 90% of patients develop anorectal dysfunction, significantly impacting their quality of life. However, standardized treatment is currently unavailable. The FORCE trial demonstrated the beneficial effects of PFR after three months regarding specific domains of the Fecal Incontinence QoL (FIQL) questionnaire and urgency compared to usual care. The FORCE trial is a multicenter, two-arm, randomized clinical trial. All patients undergoing LAR were randomly assigned to receive either usual care or a standardized PFR program. The primary outcome measure is the Wexner incontinence score, and the secondary endpoints included the LARS score, the EORTC colorectal-specific QoL questionnaire, and health- and fecal incontinence-related QoL. Assessments were conducted at baseline before randomization, at three months and one-year follow-ups. A total of 86 patients were included (PFR: n=40, control: n=46). After one year, PFR did not significantly improve Wexner incontinence scores (PFR: -3.33, 95% CI -4.41 to -2.26, control: -2.54, 95% CI -3.54 to -1.54, P=0.30). Similar to the three-month follow-up, patients without near-complete incontinence at baseline showed sustained improvement in fecal incontinence (PFR: -2.82, 95% CI -3.86 to -1.76, control: -1.43, 95% CI -2.36 to -0.50, P=0.06). Significant improvement was reported in the FIQL domains Lifestyle (PFR: 0.51, control: -0.13, P=0.03) and Coping and Behavior (PFR: 0.40, control: -0.24, P=0.01). At one-year follow-up, no significant differences were found in fecal incontinence scores; however, PFR was associated with improved fecal incontinence related QoL compared to usual care.

Characterization of obstructive defecation from a structural and a functional perspective

Background/aimsDefecation disorders can occur as a consequence of functional or structural anorectal dysfunctions during voiding. The aims of this study is to assess the prevalence of structural (SDD) vs functional (FDD) defecation disorders among patients with clinical complaints of obstructive defecation (OD) and their relationship with patients’ expulsive capacity. Patients and methodsRetrospective study of 588 patients with OD studied between 2012 and 2020 with evacuation defecography (ED), and anorectal manometry (ARM) in a subgroup of 294. Results90.3% patients were women, age was 58.5±12.4 years. Most (83.7%) had SDD (43.7% rectocele, 45.3% prolapse, 19.3% enterocele, and 8.5% megarectum), all SDD being more prevalent in women except for megarectum. Functional assessments showed: (a) absence of rectification of anorectal angle in 51% of patients and poor pelvic descent in 31.6% at ED and (b) dyssynergic defecation in 89.9%, hypertonic IAS in 44%, and 33.3% rectal hyposensitivity, at ARM. Overall, 46.4% of patients were categorized as pure SDD, 37.3% a combination of SDD+FDD, and 16.3% as having pure FDD.Rectal emptying was impaired in 66.2% of SDD, 71.3% of FDD and in 78% of patients with both (p=0.017). ConclusionsThere was a high prevalence of SDD in middle-aged women with complaints of OD. Incomplete rectal emptying was more prevalent in FDD than in SDD although FDD and SDD frequently coexist. We recommend a stepwise therapeutic approach always starting with therapy directed to improve FDD and relaxation of striated pelvic floor muscles.

Evaluation of anorectal function using real-time tissue elastography before and after preoperative chemoradiotherapy

PurposeThis study aimed to clarify the relationship between changes in elasticity and anorectal function before and after chemoradiotherapy.MethodsThis is a single-center prospective cohort study (Department of Surgical Oncology, The University of Tokyo). We established a technique to quantify internal anal sphincter hardness as elasticity using transanal ultrasonography with real-time tissue elastography. Twenty-seven patients with post-chemoradiotherapy rectal cancer during 2019–2022 were included. Real-time tissue elastography with transanal ultrasonography was performed before and after chemoradiotherapy to measure internal anal sphincter hardness as “elasticity” (hardest (0) to softest (255); decreased elasticity indicated sclerotic changes). The relationship between the increase or decrease in elasticity pre- and post-chemoradiotherapy and the maximum resting pressure, maximum squeeze pressure, and Wexner score were the outcome measures.ResultsA decrease in elasticity was observed in 16/27 (59.3%) patients after chemoradiotherapy. Patients with and without elasticity decrease after chemoradiotherapy comprised the internal anal sphincter sclerosis and non-sclerosis groups, respectively. The maximum resting pressure post-chemoradiotherapy was significantly high in the internal anal sphincter sclerosis group (63.0 mmHg vs. 47.0 mmHg), and a majority had a worsening Wexner score (60.0% vs. 18.2%) compared with that of the non-sclerosis group. Decreasing elasticity (internal anal sphincter sclerosis) correlated with a higher maximum resting pressure (r = 0.36); no correlation was observed between the degree of elasticity change and maximum squeeze pressure.ConclusionInternal anal sphincter sclerosis due to chemoradiotherapy may correlate to anorectal dysfunction.

A brief physiology and pathophysiology of the anorectum based on the Integral Theory paradigm.

The remit of this review is confined to the experimental scientific works and surgeries based on the Integral Theory paradigm. The video abstract summarizes the anorectal function, how ligaments cause dysfunction and cure of fecal incontinence and obstructed defecation by ligament repair. Anorectal function is reflex and binary, with cortical and peripheral components. The same three oppositely acting reflex muscle forces which open and close the bladder, contract against the pubourethral (PUL) and uterosacral (USL) ligaments: (I) to close the anorectum for continence when the puborectalis muscle (PRM) contracts forwards; (II) to open the anorectum prior to evacuation when the PRM relaxes; (III) to stretch the rectum in opposite directions to support the anorectal stretch receptors "N" to prevent premature activation of the defecation reflex, (fecal urgency). Weak or loose PULs or USLs may cause dysfunction of closure, of evacuation, and inability to control the defecation reflex (fecal urgency). Repair of the PUL and USL can improve or cure these dysfunctions. The perineal body (PB) acts as an anatomical support for the distal vagina, anorectum and external anal sphincter (EAS). It serves as an anchoring point for the forward action of the pubococcygeus muscle (PCM), which tensions the anterior rectal wall during closure and defecation. Bladder and bowel dysfunction have a similar pathogenesis, ligament laxity, mainly pubourethral and uterosacral, with added PB damage for anorectal dysfunction. PB damage can cause obstructive defecation and descending perineal syndrome (DPS). Repair of damaged PUL and USL can restore the closure and evacuation functions of both bladder an anorectum. DPS can be cured by repair of the PB's suspensory ligaments, deep transversus perinei.

Pelvic Neuro-Visualization: An Anatomical Illustration of the Autonomic Pelvic Nervous Network in Gynecologic Surgery

ObjectiveDuring radical pelvic surgeries fibers of the autonomic pelvic nervous network can be accidentally damaged leading to significant visceral sequelae, which dramatically affect women's quality of life because of urinary, anorectal, and sexual postoperative dysfunctions.1,2 Direct visualization is one way to preserve hypogastric nerves (HNs), pelvic splanchnic nerves (PSNs), and the bladder branches from the inferior hypogastric plexus (IHP). However, the literature lacks critical photos and/or illustrations that are necessary to understand the precise anatomy needed to preserve the pelvic autonomic fibers. DesignNarrated laparoscopic video footage for identifying, dissecting, and preserving the autonomic nerve bundles during pelvic surgery. SettingTertiary level hospital—“IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori”, Milano, Italy. InterventionsVisceral pelvic innervation is established by the superior hypogastric plexus(SHP) located anteriorly to the aortic bifurcation and the median sacral vessels and carries mostly sympathetic fibers. SHP divides in front of the sacrum into the right and left HN. At the level of the paracervix, the HNs join the parasympathetic PSNs coming out from sacral root S2, S3, S4 to form the IHP.2–5 Here, we performed laparoscopic surgery, before “Laparoscopic Approach to Cervical Cancer” trial (LACC) era, identifying key anatomic landmarks useful to highlight the path of the most commonly encountered autonomic pelvic nerves in gynecologic radical surgery: during the narration we describe and illustrate the procedure to identify all autonomic pelvic nerves, the sympathetic fibers, the PSNs, and the bladder branch emerging from the IHP in order to preserve their anatomic and functional integrity. This technique is anatomically and surgically indicated for adequate removal of the parametrical issues and vagina while preserving the total pelvic nervous system. ConclusionNerve-sparing surgery reduces bowel-, bladder- and sexual­ dysfunction without decreasing surgical efficacy.1,2 To accomplish safe and effective surgery, comprehension of the 3 dimensional structure of the vascular and nerve anatomy in the pelvis is essential. This video provides a great resource to educate surgeons, especially the youngest ones, about the retroperitoneal nervous networking: we identified the autonomic nerve pathway from adjacent tissues along the pathway consisting of cardinal, sacro-uterine, rectouterine/vaginal, and vesico-uterine ligaments.

Systemic sclerosis and anorectal dysfunction: The Leeds experience.

Systemic sclerosis is an autoimmune disorder which frequently affects the gastrointestinal tract. Anorectal dysfunction is common in systemic sclerosis and is manifested mainly by atrophy of internal anal sphincter. Faecal incontinence is the result of internal anal sphincter atrophy secondary to systemic sclerosis. In this study, we aimed to assess the internal anal sphincter in 17 patients with faecal incontinence and systemic sclerosis using anorectal manometry and endoanal ultrasound and compare them with an age and gender-matched control group without systemic sclerosis. Most patients have limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis. Majority of the patients with systemic sclerosis and faecal incontinence presented with symptoms of faecal leakage and urgency. Systemic sclerosis patients had low basal sphincter pressures. The mean thickness of internal anal sphincter in systemic sclerosis group was significantly lower than the control group (p < 0.001). Rectal sensation is preserved in systemic sclerosis. There was no difference in the mean thickness of the external anal sphincter between the two groups. To conclude internal anal sphincter is atrophic in systemic sclerosis resulting in decreased resting sphincter pressures and passive faecal leakage. Further investigations and studies are needed to determine the natural course of faecal incontinence in systemic sclerosis, associated risk factors and efficacy of therapeutic interventions.

The effect of robotic surgery on low anterior resection syndrome in patients with lower rectal cancer: a propensity score-matched analysis

BackgroundMany patients experience anorectal dysfunction after rectal surgery, which is known as low anterior resection syndrome (LARS). Robotic systems have many technical advantages that may be suitable for functional preservation after low rectal resection. Thus, the study aimed to explore whether robotic surgery can reduce the incidence and severity of LARS.MethodsPatients undergoing minimally invasive sphincter-sparing surgery for low rectal cancer were enrolled between January 2015 and December 2020. The patients were divided into robotic or laparoscopic groups. The LARS survey was conducted at 6, 12 and 18 months postoperatively. Major LARS scores were analysed as the primary endpoint. In order to reduce confounding factors, one-to-two propensity score matches were used.ResultsIn total, 342 patients were enrolled in the study. At 18 months postoperatively, the incidence of LARS was 68.7% (235/342); minor LARS was identified in 112/342 patients (32.7%), and major LARS in 123/342 (36.0%). After matching, the robotic group included 74 patients, and the laparoscopic group included 148 patients. The incidence of major LARS in the robotic group was significantly lower than that in the laparoscopic group at 6, 12, and 18 months after surgery. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, tumour location, laparoscopic surgery, intersphincteric resection, neoadjuvant therapy, and anastomotic leakage were independent risk factors for major LARS after minimally invasive sphincter-sparing surgery for low rectal cancer. Furthermore, a major LARS prediction model was constructed. Results of model evaluation showed that the nomogram had good prediction accuracy and efficiency.ConclusionsPatients with low rectal cancer may benefit from robotic surgery to reduce the incidence and severity of LARS. Our nomogram could aid surgeons in setting an individualized treatment program for low rectal cancer patients.

P499 Anorectal Motility Disorders In Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients

Abstract Background In spite of prolonged disease remission of IBD patients, induced by the new biological molecules, a significant number of them suffer from persistent debilitating symptoms with major impact on the quality of life. Frequently, these symptoms are due to post-inflammatory motility changes and misinterpreted as functional disorders. Our aim is to identify and characterize the anorectal motility dysfunction in IBD patients. Methods We are conducting an ongoing prospective study started in August 2019, which includes the IBD patients admitted in a Tertiary Gastroenterology Centre in Bucharest, with specific symptoms (anorectal pain, incontinence, difficult defecation). We perform high resolution anorectal manometry using Sandhill Scientific systems, the parameters being analysed using InSIGHT software. The manometric testing comprise measurements of anorectal pressure at rest, during squeeze, simulated evacuation, rectoanal inhibitory reflex (RAIR) and rectal sensory testing, in compliance with International Anorectal Physiology Working Group protocol Results We studied 30 patients (18 patients with Ulcerative Colitis and 12 patients with Crohn’s Disease, 18 females and 12 males, mean age 40 (±12.85) years. Only 33% (10 patients) had rectal active involvement. Symptoms were reported by 87% (26) patients: anal incontinence (85%), difficult evacuation (35%) and urgency (46%); rectal inflammation was not correlated with the presence of symptoms in our study group (p=0.28). Perianal surgical interventions didn’t represent a risk factor for fecal incontinence (p=0.18), or for dyssinergic defecation (p=0.1). Modified manometric parameters were found in 23 patients (79%). Low resting pressures were registered in 48% of patients; 55% of them presented low squeeze pressures; during push maneuvers, 34% of patients had insufficient rectal propulsive force, presenting low rectal pressures and 59% of them lacked anal canal relaxation. We performed sensibility testing on 18 patients: 9 patients presented criteria for hypersensitivity, hence reduced rectal compliance; 7 patients presented rectal hyposensitivity, while only 2 patients had normal rectal sensation. Recto-anal inhibitory reflex (RAIR) was present only in 28% of the patients, reflecting the dysfunction of the enteric neural system. Conclusion Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have significantly higher rates of functional anorectal disease. Therefore, pelvic floor investigation is an essential tool in the investigation and management of IBD patients with ongoing symptoms not thought to be related to an IBD flare.

Surgical Anatomy and Dissection of the Hypogastric Plexus in Nerve-Sparing Radical Hysterectomy.

Radical hysterectomy is a central surgical procedure in gynecological oncology. A nerve-sparing approach is essential to minimize complications from iatrogenic injury to the pelvic nerves, resulting in postoperative urinary, anorectal, and sexual dysfunction. The hypogastric plexus (HP), a complex network of sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves, plays a critical role in pelvic autonomic innervation. This article offers a comprehensive overview of the surgical anatomy of the HP and provides a step-by-step description of HP dissection, with a particular emphasis on preserving the bladder nerve branches of the inferior HP. A thorough understanding and mastery of the anatomical and surgical nuances of HP dissection are crucial for optimizing outcomes in nerve-sparing gynecologic-oncological procedures.

Long-Term Outcomes of Infantile Sacrococcygeal Teratoma: Results from a Multi-Institutional Retrospective Observational Study in Japan

BackgroundTumor recurrence, anorectal and urinary dysfunction, and lower limb dysfunction after surgery are observed in infantile sacrococcygeal teratoma (SCT). In this paper, a multi-institutional retrospective observational study was conducted to clarify the long-term functional prognosis in Japan. MethodsThis study was conducted using a paper-based questionnaire distributed to 192 facilities accredited by the Japanese Society of Pediatric Surgeons, covering patients who underwent radical surgery at less than 1 year old and who survived for at least 180 days after birth from 2000 to 2019. ResultsA total of 355 patients were included in this analysis. Altman type was I-II in 248 and type III-IV in 107, and the median maximum tumor diameter was 6.1 (range: 0.6–36.0) cm. There were 269 mature teratomas, 69 immature teratomas, and 10 malignant tumors. Total resection was performed in 325, subtotal or partial resection in 27, and surgical complications were noted in 54. The median postoperative follow-up was 6.6 (0.5–21.7) years. Eighty-three patients (23.4 %) had functional sequelae, including 62 (17.5 %) with anorectal dysfunction, 56 (13.0 %) with urinary dysfunction, and 15 (4.2 %) with lower limb motor dysfunction. Recurrence occurred in 42 (11.8 %) at a median age of 16.8 (1.7–145.1) months old. Risk factors for dysfunction included preterm delivery, a large tumor diameter, Altman type III-IV, incomplete resection, and surgical complications. Risk factors for recurrence included immature teratoma or malignancy, incomplete resection, and surgical complications. ConclusionsPostoperative dysfunction was not low at 23.4 %, and 11.8 % of the patients experienced recurrence occurring more than 10 years after surgery, suggesting the need for periodic imaging and tumor markers evaluations in patients with risk factors. It is necessary to establish treatment guidelines for best practice monitoring of the long-term quality of life. Level of evidenceLevel II Retrospective Study.

Clinical outcomes evaluation of congenital megacolon (Hirschsprung disease) short segment type after transanal endorectal pull through at Moewardi Hospital Surakarta

Background: Congenital megacolon occurs in 1 in 5000 live births, with an estimated 1200 cases annually in Indonesia, predominantly affecting males. Mortality and morbidity in these patients can be reduced through improved diagnosis, neonatal care, surgical techniques, and enterocolitis management. The transanal endorectal pull through (TEPT) procedure, a minimally invasive surgery, is the common definitive treatment for congenital megacolon, performed even in neonates. However, TEPT can lead to post-operative anorectal dysfunction, necessitating assessment through fecal continence evaluation. The aims of this study is to understand of the clinical outcome congenital megacolon short segment type after TEPT procedure at Moewardi Hospital, Surakarta. Methods: The study is a cross sectional descriptive analysis in patients with congenital megacolon short segment type who have received TEPT treatment at Moewardi Hospital Surakarta from 2010 until 2022. Results: Among the patients, 18.9% exhibited normal anorectal function, 54.1% had good continence, 24.3% had moderate continence, and 2.7% experienced incontinence. Surgery age was mostly between 1 and 12 months (64.9%), with 62.2% achieving good continence. At the 1-5-year follow-up, 48.6% had good continence. Among primarily male patients (86.1%), 43.2% had good continence. Strong correlation (Pearson Chi-square score: 0.001) confirmed the relationship between age at the time of surgery and anorectal function outcomes. Conclusions: TEPT yielded favorable anorectal function outcomes in short-segment congenital megacolon patients, with surgery age significantly impacting these outcomes. This study supports the hypothesis that surgery age influences anorectal function outcomes after TEPT at Moewardi Hospital, Surakarta.

Low anterior resection syndrome and methods of its assessment (literature review)

Low anterior resection syndrome is a common problem due to the increased incidence of rectal cancer and the high incidence of anorectal dysfunction during sphincter-preserving surgical interventions. The influence of functional disorders on the quality of life of patients and changes in social adaptation makes it possible to attribute the syndrome of low anterior resection to topical and discussed issues.Purpose of the study: to consider the features of the development of anorectal dysfunction in patients with rectal cancer by studying risk factors and pathogenetic aspects of the development of low anterior resection syndrome, as well as to evaluate the role of objective studies in assessing the syndrome according to published literature. The etiology of low anterior resection syndrome is multifactorial. Unmodified and modified predictors are distinguished among the risk factors. Unmodified factors include female gender and age over 65 years. Among the modifiable predictors, radiation therapy, surgical intervention, the type of formed colorectal anastomosis and the development of its insolvency, as well as the elimination of intestinal stoma have a negative effect on anorectal function. Nevertheless, the greatest role in its development is played by organ-preserving surgery with total mesorecumectomy, radiation therapy and the formation of a preventive ileostomy. The complexity of the pathophysiological mechanism of the syndrome necessitates a detailed study of anorectal function and changes in its parameters in patients during treatment for rectal cancer. Functional disorders in low anterior resection syndrome vary in severity. In the study of the severity of clinical manifestations of the syndrome, the use of the LARS scale is important, and in the development of anal incontinence, the use of the Wexner scale is important. However, the most accurate assessment can be carried out by objective research methods, such as high-resolution anorectal manometry. This research method allows to control the function of the rectal obturator apparatus at different stages of combined treatment and unwraps the possibility of searching for new predictors of low anterior resection syndrome.

Long-Term Anorectal Function in Rectal Cancer Patients Managed by a Watch-and-Wait Strategy after Neoadjuvant Therapy: A Cross-Sectional Study

Rectal cancer patients reaching complete clinical response (cCR) after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy can be offered a nonoperative watch-and-wait (W&W) strategy. As evidence of good oncological outcomes accumulates, the functional outcomes remain less explored. The aim of this study is to comprehensively assess the long-term rectal toxicity and anorectal function in patients managed by a W&W strategy and to investigate the clinical risk factors for anorectal dysfunction. Seventy W&W patients who were disease-free at the moment of recruitment were included. A minimum 2-year follow-up was considered. We graded late rectal toxicity according to the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group/European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (RTOG/EORTC) scale and the Late Effects of Normal Tissue/Subjective Objective Management Analytic (LENT/SOMA) system. Long-term anorectal function was assessed with the Wexner score, the Low Anterior Resection Syndrome score (LARS score), and the Memorial Sloan Kettering Bowel Function Instrument (MSK BFI). All patients received standard chemoradiotherapy consisting of a total dose of 5000 cGy in 25 fractions. The median tumor distance from the anal verge was 3 (IQR 2-4) cm. After a median follow-up of 43 (IQR 28-66) months, less than half of patients developed Grade 1 (40.0%) or Grade 2 (1.4%) late rectal toxicity, and no patients complained of higher grades. LENT/SOMA criteria also identified more patients with mild symptoms. The most frequent symptoms were sphincter control problems, mainly manifested as fecal urgency, reported by 60.0% of patients. For long-term anorectal function, the median LARS score was 16 (IQR 4-25). 17.1% of patients reported minor LARS and 15.7% reported major LARS. The median Wexner score was 2 (IQR 0-3). The median MSK BFI total score was 82 (IQR 77-86). Smoking history was an independent risk factor for anorectal dysfunction in multivariate analyses (OR = 6.491, 95% CI 1.536-27.432). Rectal cancer patients managed by a watch-and-wait strategy after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy have retained satisfactory anorectal function. However, fecal urgency might be a common problem. Smoking history was an independent risk factor for long-term anorectal dysfunction. Prospective studies with emphasis on bowel function outcomes containing a larger number of patients are needed.

Amsterdam complex pelvic pain symptom scale with subscales: Based on a Norwegian translation, psychometric assessment and modification of the Amsterdam hyperactive pelvic floor scale.

Women with an abnormally high pelvic floor muscle tone may have a clinical presentation that is complex, involving urinary, anorectal and/or sexual dysfunction, genital/pelvic pain and psychological distress. The Amsterdam Hyperactive Pelvic Floor Scale (AHPFS) is a Dutch 30-item condition-specific self-report questionnaire developed to measure these complex pelvic pain symptoms. The aim of this study was to translate the Dutch version into Norwegian, to assess the psychometric properties, and to present a valid factor structure. Translation, back-translation and a review of the back-translated version were performed. Thereafter, a pilot test including feedback from six clinical experts and cognitive interviews with 11 patients from the target group was conducted. Next, a field test was performed among women who were (1) patients at the gynecological outpatient clinic/pelvic floor physiotherapist at St. Olav's Hospital, (2) members of the Vulvodynia or the Endometriosis Patient Associations or (3) female students and employees from the Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, in a web-based survey. To ensure a sample with symptomatic women, only women who scored ≥11 according to the Dutch prespecified factor structure were included in the statistical analyses (n = 232). Content/face validity demonstrated that the questionnaire was perceived as relevant, comprehensive and understandable. Some adjustments in the instructions of the questionnaire and the response categories were made, which lead to the Norwegian translation ACPPS-30. Assessment of the questionnaire's dimensionality revealed a five-factor structure similar to the original Dutch Amsterdam Hyperactive Pelvic Floor Scale (AHPFS) but without the Urinary tract infection factor and seven other items. The translated and modified ACPPS-16 total score and subscales correlated as expected with scales measuring similar conditions. Test-retest reliability demonstrated good stability for scales (intraclass correlation coefficient 0.85-0.93) and single items (weighted kappa values from 0.34 to 0.90). A modified Norwegian version ACPPS-30 was presented, in addition to a shorter version with only 16 of the translated items distributed among five factors similar to the original Dutch version (ACPPS-16). Both versions proved to be valid, stable and reliable tools to investigate complex pelvic pain symptoms possibly due to an abnormally high-toned pelvic floor muscle.