Minor Low Anterior Resection Syndrome Research Articles

Low anterior resection syndrome phenotypes-Different symptom profiles for different patients.

Attention is increasingly being turned to functional outcomes as being central to colorectal cancer (CRC) survivorship. The current literature may underestimate the impact of evacuatory dysfunction on patient satisfaction with bowel function after anterior resection (AR) for CRC. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of post-AR symptoms of storage and evacuatory dysfunction on patient satisfaction and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). A cross-sectional study was performed at an Australian hospital of patients post-AR for CRC (2012-2021). The postoperative bowel function scores used were: low anterior resection syndrome (LARS), St Mark's incontinence, Cleveland Clinic constipation and Altomare obstructive defaecation syndrome scores. Eight 'storage' and 'evacuatory' dysfunction symptoms were derived. A seven-point Likert scale measured patient satisfaction. The SF36v2® measured HRQoL. Linear regression assessed the association between symptoms, patient satisfaction and HRQoL. Overall, 248 patients participated (mean age 70.8 years, 57.3% male), comprising 103 with rectal cancer and 145 with sigmoid cancer. Of the symptoms that had a negative impact on patient satisfaction, six reflected evacuatory dysfunction, namely excessive straining (p < 0.001), one or more unsuccessful bowel movement attempt(s)/24 h (p < 0.001), anal/vaginal digitation (p = 0.005), regular enema use (p = 0.004), toilet revisiting (p = 0.004) and >10 min toileting (p = 0.004), and four reflected storage dysfunction, namely leaking flatus (p = 0.002), faecal urgency (p = 0.005), use of antidiarrhoeal medication (p = 0.001) and incontinence-related lifestyle alterations (p < 0.001). A total of 130 patients (53.5%) had 'no LARS', 56 (23.1%) had 'minor LARS' and 57 (23.4%) had 'major LARS'. Fifty-seven (44.5%) patients classified as having 'no LARS' had evacuatory dysfunction. Postoperative storage and evacuatory dysfunction symptoms have an adverse impact on patient satisfaction and HRQoL post-AR. The importance of comprehensively documenting symptoms of evacuatory dysfunction is highlighted. Further research is required to develop a patient satisfaction-weighted LARS-specific HRQoL instrument.

Incidence of low anterior resection syndrome and its association with the quality of life in patients with lower rectal tumors.

Low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) causes devastating symptoms and impairs the quality of life (QOL). This study investigated the incidence and risk factors of LARS and their association with the QOL in patients with lower rectal tumors. Patients who underwent anus-preserving surgery for lower rectal tumors between 2014 and 2019 and who had anal defecation between 2020 and 2021 were surveyed. The LARS score measured severity, and the QOL was evaluated using the Japanese version of the Fecal Incontinence Quality-of-Life Scale (JFIQL). The primary endpoint was the incidence of Major LARS, and the secondary endpoints were risk factors and association with the JFIQL. Of 107 eligible patients, 82 (76.6%) completed the LARS survey. The incidence of Major LARS was 48%. Independent risk factors included neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (CRT) and a short interval (< 24months after surgery; odds ratio, 4.6; 95% confidence interval: 1.1-19, both). The LARS score was moderately correlated with the JFIQL generic score (correlation coefficient: - 0.54). The JFIQL scores were significantly worse in the Minor and Major LARS groups than in the No LARS group. Major LARS was found in 48% of lower rectal tumors, and independent risk factors include neoadjuvant CRT and a short interval. The QOL was significantly impaired in patients with both Minor and Major LARS.

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.

Incidence and risk factors of bowel dysfunction after minimally invasive rectal cancer surgery and discrepancies between the Wexner score and the low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) score.

Bowel dysfunction after sphincter-preserving-surgery (SPS) impacts quality of life. The Wexner score (WS) and the low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) score (LS) are instruments for assessing postoperative bowel dysfunction. We analyzed the incidence of and risk factors for each symptom and examined the discrepancies between the two scores. A total of 142 patients with rectal cancer, who underwent minimally invasive SPS between May, 2018 and July, 2019, were included. A questionnaire survey using the two scores was given to the patients 2years after SPS. Tumor location and preoperative radiotherapy were independent risk factors for major LARS. Intersphincteric resection with a hand-sewn anastomosis (HSA) was an independent risk factor for high WS. Among the patients who underwent HSA, 82% experienced incontinence for liquid stools, needed to wear pads, and suffered lifestyle alterations. Of the 35 patients with minor LARS, only 1 had a high WS, and 80.0% reported no lifestyle alterations. Among the 75 patients with major LARS, 58.7% had a low WS and 21.3% reported no lifestyle alterations. The results of this study provide practical data to help patients understand potential bowel dysfunction after SPS. The discrepancies between the WS and LS were clarified, and further efforts are required to utilize these scores in clinical practice.

Clinical Management of Low Anterior Resection Syndrome: Review of the Current Diagnosis and Treatment.

Low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) is a series of bowel dysfunction symptoms, including altered bowel frequency, irregular bowel rhythms, fecal incontinence, and constipation. LARS occurs in 80% of patients undergoing sphincter-preserving surgery, affecting patients' quality of life along with social avoidance. Different measurements and treatments have been raised to deal with LARS, but no systematic standard has been developed. To promote the standardization of clinical trials and clinical management of LARS, this review summarizes the latest findings up until 2023 regarding the diagnostic criteria, assessment protocols, and treatment modalities for postoperative LARS in rectal cancer. The diagnostic criteria for LARS need to be updated to the definition proposed by the LARS International Collaborative Group, replacing the current application of the LARS score. In both clinical trials and clinical treatment, the severity of LARS should be assessed using at least one symptom assessment questionnaire, the LARS score or MSKCC BFI, and at least one scale related to quality of life. Anorectal manometry, fecoflowmetry, endoscopic ultrasonography, and pelvic floor muscle strength testing are recommended to be adopted only in clinical trials. After analysis of the latest literature on LARS treatment, a stepwise classification model is established for the standardized clinical management of LARS. Patients with minor LARS can start with first-line treatment, including management of self-behavior with an emphasis on diet modification and medication. Lamosetron, colesevelam hydrochloride, and loperamide are common antidiarrheal agents. Second-line management indicates multi-mode pelvic floor rehabilitation and transanal irrigation. Patients with major LARS should select single or several treatments in second-line management. Refractory LARS can choose antegrade enema, neuromodulation, or colostomy. In clinical trials of LARS treatment between 2020 and 2022, the eligibility criteria and evaluation system have been variable. Therefore, it is urgent to create a standard for the diagnosis, assessment, and treatment of LARS. Failure to set placebos and differentiate subgroups are limitations of many current LARS studies. Randomized controlled trials comparing diverse therapies and long-term outcomes are absent, as well. Moreover, a new scale needs to be developed to incorporate the patient's perspective and facilitate outpatient follow-up. Though the establishment of a stepwise classification model for LARS treatment here is indispensable, the refinement of the guidelines may be improved by more standardized studies.

CN68 Experiences and needs of rectal cancer survivors without or with minor low anterior resection syndrome

CN68 Experiences and needs of rectal cancer survivors without or with minor low anterior resection syndrome

Gut microbiome associated with low anterior resection syndrome after rectal cancer surgery

This study aimed to assess the likely association of gut microbiome with low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) symptoms. Postoperative stool samples from patients with minor or major LARS after sphincter-preserving surgery (SPS) for rectal cancer were collected and analyzed using 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing method. The symptom patterns of LARS were classified into two groups (PC1LARS, PC2LARS) using principal component analysis. The dichotomized sum of questionnaire items (sub1LARS, sub2LARS) was used to group patients according to the main symptoms. According to microbial diversity, enterotype, and taxa, PC1LARS and sub1LARS were associated with frequency-dominant LARS symptoms and patients, while PC2LARS and sub2LARS were grouped as incontinence-dominant LARS symptoms and patients. Butyricicoccus levels decreased while overall LARS scores increased. The α-diversity richness index Chao1 showed a significantly negative correlation in sub1LARS and a positive correlation in sub2LARS. In sub1LARS, the severe group showed a lower Prevotellaceae enterotype and higher Bacteroidaceae enterotype than the mild group. Subdoligranulum and Flavonifractor showed a negative and a positive correlation with PC1LARS, respectively, while showing a negative relationship with PC2LARS. Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium were negatively correlated to PC1LARS. Frequency-dominant LARS had decreased diversity of gut microbiome and showed lower levels of lactic acid-producing bacteria.

Surgical outcomes of left hemicolon sparing resection versus extensive resection in treating synchronous colorectal cancer involving the right-sided colon and sigmoid colon or rectum

BackgroundThere are different surgical strategies that can treat synchronous colorectal cancer (SCRC) involving separate segments, namely extensive resection (EXT) and left hemicolon-sparing resection (LHS). We aim to comparatively analyze short-term surgical results, bowel function, and long-term oncological outcomes between SCRC patients treated with the two different surgical strategies.MethodsOne hundred thirty-eight patients with SCRC lesions located in the right hemicolon and rectum or sigmoid colon were collected at the Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and the Peking University First Hospital from January 2010 to August 2021 and divided into EXT group (n = 35) and LHS group (n = 103), depending on their surgical strategies. These two groups of patients were compared for postoperative complications, bowel function, the incidence of metachronous cancers, and prognosis.ResultsThe operative time for the LHS group was markedly shorter compared with the EXT group (268.6 vs. 316.9 min, P = 0.015). The post-surgery incidences of total Clavien-Dindo grade ≥ II complications and anastomotic leakage (AL) were 8.7 vs. 11.4% (P = 0.892) and 4.9 vs. 5.7% (P = 1.000) for the LHS and EXT groups, respectively. The mean number of daily bowel movements was significantly lower for the LHS group than for the EXT group (1.3 vs. 3.8, P < 0.001). The proportions of no low anterior resection syndrome (LARS), minor LARS, and major LARS for the LHS and EXT groups were 86.5 vs. 80.0%, 9.6 vs. 0%, and 3.8 vs. 20.0%, respectively (P = 0.037). No metachronous cancer was found in the residual left colon during the 51-month (median duration) follow-up period. The overall and disease-free survival rates at 5 years were 78.8% and 77.5% for the LHS group and 81.7% and 78.6% for the EXT group (P = 0.565, P = 0.712), respectively. Multivariate analysis further confirmed N stage, but not surgical strategy, as the risk factor that independently affected the patients’ survival.ConclusionsLHS appears to be a more appropriate surgical strategy for SCRC involving separate segments because it exhibited shorter operative time, no increase in the risk of AL and metachronous cancer, and no adverse long-term survival outcomes. More importantly, it could better retain bowel function and tended to reduce the severity of LARS and therefore improve the post-surgery life quality of SCRC patients.

Cross-sectional study of low anterior resection syndrome in patients who have survived more than 5 years after sphincter-preserving surgery for rectal cancer

Objective: In this study, we aimed to investigate the prevalence of low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) in patients who had survived for more than 5 years after sphincter-preserving surgery for rectal cancer and to analyze its relationship with postoperative time. Methods: This was a single-center, retrospective, cross-sectional study. The study cohort comprised patients who had survived for at least 5 years (60 months) after undergoing sphincter- preserving radical resection of pathologically diagnosed rectal adenocarcinoma within 15 cm of the anal verge in the Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Peking University People's Hospital from January 2005 to May 2016. Patients who had undergone local resection, had permanent stomas, recurrent intestinal infection, local recurrence, history of previous anorectal surgery, or long- term preoperative defecation disorders were excluded. A LARS questionnaire was administered by telephone interview, points being allocated for incontinence for flatus (0-7 points), incontinence for liquid stools (0-3 points), frequency of bowel movements (0-5 points), clustering of stools (0-11 points), and urgency (0-16 points). The patients were allocated to three groups based on these scores: no LARS (0-20 points), minor LARS (21-29 points), and major LARS (30-42 points). The prevalence of LARS and major LARS in patients who had survived more than 5 years after surgery, correlation between postoperative time and LARS score, and whether postoperative time was a risk factor for major LARS and LARS symptoms were analyzed. Results: The median follow-up time of the 160 patients who completed the telephone interview was 97 (60-193) months; 81 (50.6%) of them had LARS, comprising 34 (21.3%) with minor LARS and 47 (29.4%) with major LARS. Spearman correlation analysis showed no significant correlation between LARS score and postoperative time (correlation coefficient α=-0.016, P=0.832). Multivariate analysis identified anastomotic height (RR=0.850, P=0.022) and radiotherapy (RR=5.760, P<0.001) as independent risk factors for major LARS; whereas the postoperative time was not a significant risk factor (RR=1.003, P=0.598). The postoperative time was also not associated with LARS score rank and frequency of bowel movements, clustering, or urgency (P>0.05). However, the rates of incontinence for flatus (3/31, P=0.003) and incontinence for liquid stools (8/31, P=0.005) were lower in patients who had survived more than 10 years after surgery. Conclusions: Patients with rectal cancer who have survived more than 5 years after sphincter-preserving surgery still have a high prevalence of LARS. We found no evidence of major LARS symptoms resolving over time.

Non-Operative Management is Feasible and Safe in Patients with Rectal Cancer Who Achieve Clinical Complete Response to Short-Course Radiation Therapy and Consolidation Chemotherapy

<h3>Purpose/Objective(s)</h3> The purpose of this study was to report on patients with localized rectal adenocarcinoma followed with non-operative management (NOM) with a watch-and-wait (W&W) strategy after achieving clinical complete response (cCR) to short-course radiation therapy (SCRT) and consolidation chemotherapy. <h3>Materials/Methods</h3> Patients with rectal adenocarcinoma who achieved cCR to SCRT and consolidation chemotherapy and were subsequently managed with NOM were included in this study. Endpoints included overall survival (OS), freedom from local failure (FFLF), freedom from distant metastasis (FFDM), and disease-free survival (DFS). cCR was defined by absence of residual tumor, nodularity, and ulceration on endoscopic evaluation. FFLF was defined as time from achieving cCR to development of intraluminal recurrence on endoscopic evaluation. DFS was defined as time from completion of SCRT to death, local-regional failure, or distant failure. Local failures that were successfully salvaged were not considered disease progression. Patients with sustained cCR were given surveys to assess general and bowel quality of life: 1. EORTC Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30, 2. EORTC Quality of Life Questionnaire-Colorectal Cancer 29, and 3. Low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) score. <h3>Results</h3> A total of 87 patients were treated with SCRT and chemotherapy, of which 33 had cCR. Of the 33 with cCR, 26 patients were managed with NOM. Median age was 63 years (range, 44-79 years). Median follow-up was 20.4 months (range, 7.2-46.2 months). All patients were treated with SCRT to 25 Gy in 5 fractions. Chemotherapy regimens included mFOLFOX (n=20), CAPOX (n=3), mFOLFOX and CAPOX (n=1), mFOLFOX and FLOX (n=1), CAPOX and capecitabine (n=1), for a median of 4.5 months (range, 2.0-9.0 months). Median FFLF was not reached, with 6-month, 1-year, and 2-year FFLF rates of 85.7%, 68.0%, and 68.0%, respectively. Seven (26.9%) patients developed local failure at a median of 6.8 months (range, 3.4-30.2 months) after achieving cCR, of which 5 (71.4%) were successfully salvaged. Median OS was not reached with 6-month, 1-year, and 2-year OS rates of 100%. Median FFDM was not reached, with 6-month, 1-year, and 2-year FFDM rates of 100%, 94.7%, and 89.2%, respectively. Median DFS was not reached, with 6-month, 1-year, and 2-year DFS rates of 100%, 95.0%, and 89.4%, respectively. Survey response rate was 83.3%. Median LARS score was 27 (range, 0-37) and mean LARS score was 20.9. Major LARS, minor LARS, and no LARS occurred in 3 patients (20%), 6 patients (40%), and 6 patients (40%), respectively. There were no differences in EORTC and LARS survey scores between patients who had > 50% of their anal sphincter region included in the prescription-dose radiation volume and those who did not. <h3>Conclusion</h3> Non-operative management with W&W strategy may be an appropriate option for patients with rectal adenocarcinoma who achieve cCR to SCRT and consolidation chemotherapy. Furthermore, anorectal function appears to be adequate with this approach.

Does the Low Anterior Resection Syndrome Score Accurately Represent the Impact of Bowel Dysfunction on Health-Related Quality of Life?

BackgroundBowel dysfunction after rectal cancer surgery is common, but its effect on health-related quality of life (HRQOL) is complex. Objective measures of bowel function may not be a good representation on the actual impact on HRQOL. Therefore, the objective of this study is to determine whether there are differences between patient-reported bowel-related impairment versus a standardized measure of bowel dysfunction on HRQOL. MethodsA prospective database starting in September 2018 of adult patients who had undergone sphincter preserving rectal cancer surgery up to October 2021 was queried. Patients were excluded if they had local recurrence, metastasis, persistent stoma, or had less than 1-year follow-up. Patients were administered the study instruments at their standard surveillance visit: patient-reported bowel-related quality of life(BQOL) impairment, HRQOL using the Short Form-36 (SF-36), and bowel dysfunction using the low anterior resection syndrome(LARS) score. ResultsOverall, 136 patients were included. There were 43% with no LARS, 22% with minor LARS, and 35% with major LARS. For the BQOL, 26% of subjects reported no impairment, 57% minor impairment, and 17% major impairment. There was a high proportion of discordance between BQOL and LARS, with 23% minor or major LARS in patients with no BQOL impairment, and 32% with no or minor LARS with major BQOL impairment. The BQOL was associated with more changes in SF-36 scores compared to the LARS score. ConclusionsThe patient-reported BQOL is likely to be a more relevant outcome of interest to patients than the objective LARS score. This has important implications for shared decision-making for rectal cancer treatments.

The evaluation of postoperative bowel dysfunction in Japanese patients with rectal cancer.

The present study assessed postoperative bowel dysfunction in Japanese patients with rectal cancer, including patients who underwent preoperative radiotherapy (RT). A total of 277 rectal cancer patients who underwent primary resection were included in the analyses. A questionnaire survey was administered using the low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) score and Wexner score. Scores were determined one year after rectal surgery or diverting ileostomy closure. The LARS score was categorized as minor LARS (21-29) and major LARS (30-42). The proportions of patients with minor and major LARS were significantly larger and Wexner scores significantly higher in patients with distal tumors and a lower anastomosis level than in those with proximal tumors and a higher anastomosis level. Among the patients with lower rectal cancer, the proportions with minor and major LARS were similar between those with and without preoperative RT. The Wexner scores in patients with preoperative RT were significantly higher than in patients without RT. A distal tumor location and lower anastomosis level were independent risk factors of major LARS in multivariate analyses. A distal tumor location, low anastomosis level, and preoperative RT might be associated with postoperative bowel dysfunction in rectal cancer patients.

Low anterior resection syndrome following rectal cancer surgery: are incidence and severity lower with long-term follow-up?

Low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) is a functional disorder that may follow restorative proctectomy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term incidence and risk factors for LARS following surgery for rectal cancer. A retrospective study was performed on patients from a prospectively maintained database, who underwent a restorative proctectomy between January 2014 and December 2019 at Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center. The study cohort was divided into two groups: patients following partial proctectomy with a partial mesorectal excision and a colorectal anastomosis (PME group) and patients following total proctectomy with total mesorectal excision and a coloanal anastomosis (TME group). The incidence and severity of LARS were evaluated using the LARS questionnaire. Risk factors for LARS were also evaluated. A total of 240 patients (male: female ratio 134:106, median age 64years [interquartile range 55-71years]) were included in the analysis. There were 160 patients in the PME group and 80 patients in the TME group. The overall incidence of LARS was 37.4% (26.5% major LARS and 10.9% minor LARS). Major LARS was observed in 53.8% of patients who underwent TME and in 12.7% of patients who underwent PME (p < 0.001). On multivariate analysis, distance of the anastomosis from the anal verge, TME, and neoadjuvant radiotherapy were independent prognostic factors for LARS. The incidence and severity of LARS were significantly lower in patients with longer follow-up (p = 0.05). Significant improvement in LARS can be expected with longer follow-up. Distance of the anastomosis from the anal verge, TME and neoadjuvant radiotherapy are independent risk factors for LARS.

Transanal total mesorectal excision and delayed coloanal anastomosis without stoma for low rectal cancer.

The management of low rectal cancer is a perennial challenge for colorectal surgeons. The benefits of transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) in low rectal cancer are to secure the distal margin and avoid surgical space constraints within the deep pelvis. However, anastomotic leak remains an important concern. We report our technique and results combining TaTME with delayed coloanal anastomosis (DCAA) without bowel diversion. First, the splenic flexure, left colon and rectum are laparoscopically mobilized to mid-rectum. TaTME is performed to complete the distal rectal mobilization, and the specimen is delivered transanally and transected. The abdominoperineal colonic pull-through is secured to the anal canal and hypertonic dressing is applied regularly in the ward. The handsewn DCAA is performed one week later. An accompanying video demonstrates this technique. Five consecutive patients with low rectal cancer underwent TaTME with DCAA. All had upfront surgical resection except one who underwent total neoadjuvant therapy. Mean operative duration, blood loss, and length of hospital stay was 290 (250-375) min, 142 (10-200) ml and 11.6 (10-14) days respectively. One patient (20%) suffered a postoperative complication of persistent urinary retention, requiring an indwelling urinary catheter on discharge. There were no cases of open conversion and no instances of anastomotic leakage. Two patients (40%) had minor low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) and one (20%) had major LARS. TaTME and DCAA without stoma are complimentary techniques that augment the minimally invasive effects of laparoscopic sphincter-sparing low rectal cancer surgery, with good perioperative outcomes.

A predictive nomogram model for low anterior resection syndrome after rectal cancer resection.

The aim of this study was to identify risk factors associated with the low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) and to construct a nomogram capable of predicting the risk of LARS in patients who undergo rectal cancer resection. About 538 patients who had undergone anterior resection were recruited as a development set. In addition, 114 patients with rectal cancer were analysed as a validation set to test the new nomogram. Patients in the development set were grouped into two separate cohorts: those with major LARS and those with minor or no LARS. Multiple logistic regression was conducted to detect risk factors for major LARS. The prevalence of major LARS was 40.7%, of minor LARS was 28.6% and the proportion with no LARS was 30.7% in the development set. In multivariate analysis, female gender, preoperative chemoradiation, low tumour height, diverting ileostomy, postoperative anastomotic leakage were shown to be independently associated with major LARS occurring in patients after rectal cancer resection. The area under the curve (AUC) values of the nomogram were 0.726 (95% CI: 0.682-0.769) and 0.750 (95% CI: 0.655-0.845) in the development and validation sets, respectively. The calibration curves and Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness of fit tests showed that the model was acceptably accurate. A nomogram model based on risk factors could be valuable as a predictor of the probability of major LARS after rectal cancer surgery, and provides a guide that clinical staff can use to take preventive measures for high-risk patients.

Risk factors associated with low anterior resection syndrome: a cross-sectional study.

Oncological outcomes following rectal cancer surgery have improved significantly over recent decades with lower recurrences and longer overall survival. However, many of the patients experienced low anterior resection syndrome (LARS). This study identified the prevalence and risk factors associated with the development of LARS. This cross-sectional study involved patients who were diagnosed with rectal cancer and had undergone sphincter-preserving low anterior resection from January 2011 to December 2020. Upon clinic follow-up, patients were asked to complete an interviewed based questionnaire (LARS score) designed to assess bowel dysfunction after rectal cancer surgery. Out of 76 patients, 25 patients (32.9%) had major LARS, 10 patients (13.2%) had minor LARS, and 41 patients (53.9%) had no LARS. The height of tumor from anal verge showed an association with the development of major LARS (P=0.039). Those patients with less than 8 cm tumor from anal verge had an increased risk of LARS by 3 times compared to those with 8 cm and above (adjusted odds ratio, 3.11; 95% confidence interval, 1.06-9.13). Results from our study show that low tumor height was a significant risk factor that has a negative impact on bowel function after surgery. The high prevalence of LARS emphasizes the need for study regarding risk factors and the importance of understanding the pathophysiology of LARS, in order for us to improve patient bowel function and quality of life after rectal cancer surgery.

Impact of defecation dysfunction on quality of life in mid-low rectal cancer patients following sphincter-sparing surgery

ObjectiveA 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 LARS on quality of life (QoL) in Chinese rectal cancer patients following sphincter-sparing surgery. MethodsThis 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 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. ResultsThe 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). ConclusionsThe 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.

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Low Anterior Resection Syndrome in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Surgery.

BackgroundIn this study, we aimed to determine the prevalence and risk factors of low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) in epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) surgery.MethodologyA descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at the Gynecologic Oncology Section of the Department of Surgical Oncology, Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital & Research Centre, Lahore, Pakistan. Using non-probability consecutive sampling technique, all patients who underwent cytoreductive surgery involving low anterior resection for EOC between January 2016 and January 2021 were included. Patients were assessed for LARS symptoms using the LARS score, along with its risk factors. Descriptive statistics, that is, continuous variables were expressed as the median and interquartile range, while categorical variables were expressed as frequencies and percentages. The LARS score was categorized according to a two-tier model with “no or minor LARS” and “major LARS.” Univariate analyses were performed by the chi-square tests providing odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals to identify risk factors for major LARS.ResultsOverall, 95% of cases had LARS scores that fell in “no or minor LARS,” while only 5% of cases had “major LARS.” Univariate analyses relieved no statistically significant association between the occurrence of major LARS and any of the risk factors.ConclusionsThe prevalence of LARS was 5%, and no risk factors were associated with major LARS in our study population.

Feasibility Study of Transanal Irrigation Using a Colostomy Irrigation System in Patients With Low Anterior Resection Syndrome.

Low anterior resection syndrome has a negative impact on quality of life. Intestinal irrigation is a method of lavage consisting of a scheduled evacuation. This study aims to evaluate functional and quality-of-life outcomes in patients with low anterior resection syndrome after transanal irrigation using a colostomy irrigation system. This was a prospective case series. This study presents a single-center experience at a tertiary oncological center in an upper-middle-income country. Patients classified as having minor or major low anterior resection syndrome 12 months after their operation were selected. Transanal irrigation was performed using an ostomy irrigation kit. Questionnaires assessing patients' bowel function (low anterior resection syndrome and Wexner score) and quality of life (Short Form-36 questionnaire) were applied before and after treatment. The primary outcomes were low anterior resection syndrome score and quality-of-life improvement after a 12-month treatment. Of the 22 patients included, 20 had major and 2 had minor low anterior resection syndrome, with a median score of 39, especially high rates of incontinence for liquid stool (21; 95.5%), clustering (21; 95.5%), and urgency (17; 77.3%). All patients successfully completed the 3-day training, and there were no complications during the treatment. After the 12-month period, the median score was 8, with 90% of the patients classified as having "no syndrome" and great improvement in all domains of this score. The most improved quality-of-life sections were patient vitality (p = 0.025) and physical (p = 0.002), social (p = 0.001), and emotional aspects (p = 0.001). The study was limited by its small sample size and the limited follow-up period. This study presents a safe implementation protocol of an ostomy irrigation device for transanal irrigation. It also adds to the literature that transanal irrigation is a safe, effective, and easily implemented procedure for patients with low anterior resection syndrome with a significant improvement in quality of life. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B563.ESTUDIO DE FACTIBILIDAD DE LA IRRIGACIÓN TRANSANAL UTILIZANDO EL SISTEMA DE IRRIGACIÓN PARA COLOSTOMÍA EN PACIENTES CON SÍNDROME DE RESECCIÓN ANTERIOR BAJAANTECEDENTES:El síndrome de resección anterior baja tiene un impacto negativo en la calidad de vida de los pacientes. La irrigación intestinal es un método de lavado que consiste en evacuaciones programadas.OBJETIVOS:Evaluar los resultados de la funcionalidad e impacto en la calidad de vida de los pacientes con síndrome de resección anterior y baja posterior a la irrigación transanal utilizando un sistema de irrigación de colostomía.DISEÑO:Es estudio prospectivo de una serie de casos.ESCENARIO:En este estudio se muestra la experiencia de un centro oncológico de tercer nivel en un país en vías de desarrollo.PACIENTES:Aquellos clasificados como síndrome con afección en menor o mayor grado doce meses después de la cirugía.METODO:Se efectuó irrigación transanal utilizando un equipo de irrigación de estomas. Se aplicaron cuestionarios para valorar la función intestinal de los pacientes (síndrome de resección anterior baja y la escala de Wexner) y para calidad de vida (Cuestionario Corto-36) antes y después del tratamiento.EVALUACION DE LOS RESULTADOS PRINCIPALES:Los principales resultados se obtuvieron de la escala del síndrome de resección baja y la mejoría en la calidad vida doce meses después de tratamiento.RESULTADOS:De los veintidós pacientes incluidos, veinte presentaron manifestaciones mayores del síndrome de resección baja y dos, manifestaciones menores. Con una media de treinta y nueve, se encontraron, especialmente, altos índices de incontinencia a líquidos (21; 95'5%) hiperdefecación "clustering" (21; 95'5%) y urgencia (17; 77'3%). Todos los pacientes completaron en forma satisfactoria el entrenamiento de tres días sin presentarse complicaciones durante el tratamiento. Al término del mes doce la media fue de ocho, con el 90% de los pacientes clasificados como "sin síndrome" y se observó una mejoría substancial en todos los puntos de la evaluación. Las secciones de calidad de vida que mostraron una mejoría significativa fueron: la vitalidad del paciente (p = 0'025), física (p = 0'002), social (p = 0'001) y emocional (p = 0'001).LIMITACIONES:El tamaño de la muestra es pequeño y el tiempo de seguimiento corto.CONCLUSIONES:Este estudio muestra la implementación de un protocolo seguro para la irrigación de estomas mediante un dispositivo transanal. Además contribuye con el concepto en la literatura de que la seguridad de la irrigación transanal es seguro, efectivo y facilmente reproducible para pacientes con síndrome de resección anterior baja con una mejoría significativa en la calidad de vida. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B563. (Traducción-Dr. Miguel Esquivel-Herrera).

Clinical Utility and Characteristics of the LARS Score Compared to the CCIS.

The low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) score (LS) has been widely validated and has become an international tool for evaluating postoperative bowel dysfunction. However, many physicians still use the conventional incontinence scores in LARS treatment. Moreover, interpretation of LS and its relationship with conventional incontinence scores are not yet well understood. Here we compared the LS with the Cleveland Clinic Incontinence Score (CCIS) to clarify the clinical utility and characteristics of the LARS score. We performed a multicentre observational study, recruiting 246 rectal cancer patients following sphincter-preserving surgery. Patients completed the LS, CCIS, and SF36 questionnaires. The response rate was 76.4%, and a total of 180 patients were analysed. The LS was strongly correlated with the CCIS (P < 0.001, rs = 0.727). However, among 116 patients determined to not have incontinence (CCIS 0-5), 51 (44%) were diagnosed with LARS (29 with minor LARS and 22 with major LARS). Among 68 patients without LARS, only 3 were diagnosed as having incontinence (CCIS > 6). In comparison with background factors, aging and elapsed time were associated with only LS. High LS and CCIS both showed significant quality-of-life impairment as assessed by the SF-36. This is the first study to determine the difference in the numeric values between the CCIS and LS. The LS can be a convenient tool for LARS screening, identifying a wide range of patients with LARS, including those with incontinence evaluated by CCIS. Assessment using the CCIS may often underestimate LARS.