Preoperative Constipation Research Articles

Efficacy of Bowel Regimen in Decreasing Postoperative Constipation in Bariatric Surgery Patients.

Postoperative constipation after bariatric surgery is a common complaint, decreasing patient quality of life. No literature exists examining the efficacy of a preoperative bowel regimen in reducing postoperative constipation in this cohort. This study aims explore the efficacy of a well-established bowel regimen, polyethylene glycol (PEG), in reducing constipation frequency and severity after bariatric surgery. This was a retrospective study of adult patients undergoing primary and revisional bariatric procedures. The use of PEG bowel prep for bariatric patients was introduced as an institutional quality improvement measure. Patients during the first 3months after PEG implementation were surveyed for postoperative constipation. For the year after implementation, patients were followed for 30-day emergency room visits or hospitalization secondary to constipation. This cohort was compared to historical controls from the previous year. Student t-tests were used for statistical analysis. During the 3-month exploratory phase, 28/49 (57.14%) patients fully completed the bowel regimen. In total, 0/56 (0%) patients reported preoperative constipation, and 5/28 (17.9%) patients reported constipation at the 3-week follow-up. In the 1year post-implementation cohort, 2/234 (0.85%) patients had constipation-related occurrences at 30-day follow-up, compared to 8/219 patients (3.65%) in the historical cohort (p = 0.04). The implementation of a PEG-based bowel regimen did not eliminate self-reported constipation. However, there were significant differences in rates of constipation-related ED visits and hospital readmissions, suggesting that the bowel regimen decreases rates of severe constipation. Finally, patient compliance was limited. Future work should aim towards increasing compliance.

Constipation After Elective Laparoscopy for Benign Gynecological Indications–A Prospective Observational Study

Discover the rate of post-operative constipation in participants undergoing elective laparoscopy for benign gynecological indications DESIGN: Prospective observational study SETTING: Single site, tertiary level gynecology unit with a focus on pelvic pain and endometriosis. Recruited participants were patients of the institution over the age of 18 who had planned to undergo an elective laparoscopy for benign gynecological indications prior to enrolment in the study. Participants were excluded if they were not English speaking, had a chronic bowel condition (with the exception of irritable bowel syndrome), were planned to have bowel surgery, hysterectomy, or converted to laparotomy. In this prospective study, participants completed 3 consecutive surveys. One prior to surgery, one a week post-surgery, and a third 3 months post-surgery. The surveys collected data regarding the participant's bowel habits, pain relief used, laxatives used, and the distress or bother caused by their bowels. Constipation was defined by a modified ROME IV criteria. Opiate use and laxative use were defined by patient-reported tablet counts. The level of distress was measured as a continuously variable scale from 0 to 100. Variables adjusted for included subject's demographics, pre-operative constipation, indication for surgery, duration of surgery, estimated blood loss, opiate use (preoperative, peri-operative, and post-operative), laxative use, and length of stay. A total of 153 participants were recruited, of which 103 completed both the pre-operative and post-operative survey. Post-operative constipation was present in 70% of participants. The mean length of time to first bowel motion was 3 days, with 32% of participants having their first bowel motion after the third post-operative day. The level of bother caused by their bowel habit was higher in the constipation group compared to those without constipation. Post-operatively opiates were used in 84.9% of participants, and laxatives were used in 47.1%. Visits to the general practitioner for constipation occurred in 5.8% of participants. Post-operative constipation is common and bothersome in participants who undergo elective laparoscopy for benign gynecological indications. Analysis of individual variables failed to identify any factors that influenced the rate of constipation.

A standardized postoperative bowel regimen protocol after spine surgery.

Spine surgery is associated with early impairment of gastrointestinal motility, with postoperative ileus rates of 5-12%. A standardized postoperative medication regimen aimed at early restoration of bowel function can reduce morbidity and cost, and its study should be prioritized. A standardized postoperative bowel medication protocol was implemented for all elective spine surgeries performed by a single neurosurgeon from March 1, 2022 to June 30, 2022 at a metropolitan Veterans Affairs medical center. Daily bowel function was tracked and medications were advanced using the protocol. Clinical, surgical, and length of stay data are reported. Across 20 consecutive surgeries in 19 patients, mean age was 68.9 years [standard deviation (SD) = 10; range 40-84]. Seventy-four percent reported preoperative constipation. Surgeries consisted of 45% fusion and 55% decompression; lumbar retroperitoneal approaches constituted 30% (10% anterior, 20% lateral). Two patients were discharged in good condition prior to bowel movement after meeting institutional discharge criteria; the other 18 cases all had return of bowel function by postoperative day (POD) 3 (mean = 1.8-days, SD = 0.7). There were no inpatient or 30-day complications. Mean discharge occurred 3.3-days post-surgery (SD = 1.5; range 1-6; home 95%, skilled nursing facility 5%). Estimated cumulative cost of the bowel regimen was $17 on POD 3. Careful monitoring of return of bowel function after elective spine surgery is important for preventing ileus, reducing healthcare cost, and ensuring quality. Our standardized postoperative bowel regimen was associated with return of bowel function within 3 days and low costs. These findings can be utilized in quality-of-care pathways.

Prevalence of Obstructed Defecation among Patients Who Underwent Hemorrhoidectomy and Correlation between Preoperative Constipation Score and Postoperative Patients' Satisfaction: A Prospective Study in Two Centers.

obstructed defecation syndrome (ODS) is a common but underestimated condition that may affect the outcomes after hemorrhoidectomy. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of obstructed defecation syndrome (ODS) among patients who underwent hemorrhoidectomy and to assess the correlation between preoperative constipation score and postoperative patients' satisfaction. This prospective study included adult patients who underwent hemorrhoidectomy for 3rd and 4th-grade hemorrhoidal diseases. All participant patients underwent an assessment of functional OD severity by the Agachan-Wexner Constipation Scoring System. All patients were subjected to conventional hemorrhoidectomy. At 6 months postoperatively, patients were assessed again for their constipation score and postoperative patients' satisfaction. The study included 120 patients (62 males and 58 females) with a mean age of 38.7 ± 12.1 years. About one-quarter of patients (24.2%) had obstructed defecation (constipation score ≥12). ODS (constipation score ≥12) was found to be significantly more among older patients, female patients, especially those with multiple pregnancies and multiple labors, and those with perineal descent. The postoperative constipation score (5.6 ± 3.3 mean ± SD) showed significant improvement (p = 0.001) compared to (9.3 ± 3.9 mean ± SD) preoperatively. Postoperative patients' satisfaction (mean 12.3 ± 3.0) at 6 months had a negative correlation with preoperative total constipation score (r = -0.035, p = 0.702). The prevalence of obstructed defecation among patients with hemorrhoids was higher than reported among the general population. High preoperative constipation scores had a negative correlation with postoperative patients' satisfaction. Routine preoperative measurement of ODS can allow the detection of this particular group of patients who require a more physical and psychological evaluation, in addition to special preoperative counseling.

OC-040 RETAINER I (RETENTION OF URINE AFTER INGUINAL HERNIA ELECTIVE REPAIR), A PROSPECTIVE, INTERNATIONAL, MULTICENTRE COHORT STUDY

Abstract Aim Post-operative urinary retention (POUR) is a recognised complication of inguinal hernia repair (IHR). Reported incidence is variable, and reporting of risk factors, contradictory. We aimed to report the rate, risk factors and impact of POUR post IHR. Methods A prospective international observational study was performed with 4 week data collection from each centre (March-November 2021). Patients undergoing elective open/minimally-invasive IHR were eligible. Exclusion criteria included a urethral catheter at baseline. Preoperative/intraoperative/postoperative variables were analysed and data recorded via REDCap. Multivariate analysis was performed with a primary outcome of development of POUR. Secondary outcomes were risk factors for, and implications of, POUR. Results 4,153 patients (205 centres; 35 countries) were registered. Mean age was 54.7 years (18–95) and BMI 26.5 (16–6). 80.4% (n=3167) were performed open and 17% (n=674) minimally-invasively. The overall rate of POUR was 5.8% (n=225) and increasd >9% in male patients aged >65 years old. Risk factors associated with POUR included: higher preoperative IPSS scores (mean 9.4 vs 5.6 in non-POUR cohort, p<0.001), diagnosis of BPH (p<0.001), pre-operative constipation (p=0.009) defined as no bowel opening for two days pre-operatively and pre-operative post void residual volumes (<0.001). 37% of patients developing POUR required an unplanned hospital admission. Conclusion This study suggests a global POUR rate of approximately 5% following elective IHR and confirm a significant impact of POUR on patients and hospital services. Findings highlight several risk factors and confirm the IPSS score as a potential risk stratification tool.

Is laparoscopic ventral rectopexy a good treatment option for rectal prolapse?

Aim: Laparoscopic ventral rectopexy (LVR) is one of the most commonly performed procedures in the treatment of rectal prolapse (RP). This study aimed to evaluate postoperative changes in the incontinence status and short-term functional outcomes of patients with RP who underwent LVR.
 Material and Method: This study included 15 patients who underwent LRV with the diagnosis of RP between January 2017 and June 2021 at Health Sciences University Ankara Numune Training and Research Hospital and Ankara City Hospital. Data were obtained by retrospectively examining the electronic records of the patients. The Wexner incontinence score (WIS) was calculated preoperatively and postoperatively by contacting the patients by phone at six months after the operation. In addition, the constipation status of the patients and whether they had recurrence of RP were questioned.
 Results: The mean age of the 15 patients included in the study was 55 (range, 30-81) years. Twelve (80%) patients were female and three (20%) were male. When the preoperative and postoperative WISs of the patients were compared, the latter was statistically significantly lower than the former (p=0.002). Among the 10 (66.7%) patients who had constipation in the preoperative period, this complaint was resolved in four (40%), but new-onset constipation was detected in two (40%) of the five (33.3%) patients without preoperative constipation. The recurrence of RP was observed in only one (6.7%) patient in the postoperative follow-up.
 Conclusion: Considering the short-term outcomes in the patients who underwent LRV for RP, it can be concluded that LVR is a good option in this patient group, with a low recurrence rate and satisfactory improvement in incontinence.

A new modified Gant-Miwa-Thiersch combined with submucosal and perirectal sclerosant injection procedure for full-thickness rectal prolapse in elderly women: clinical analysis of 34 cases

BackgroundFull-thickness rectal prolapse (FTRP) frequently occurs in elderly women, and more than 100 surgical procedures have been proposed to restore FTRP. The Gant-Miwa-Thiersch (GMT) procedure is the most used treatment in China. However, the recurrence rate of FTRP post-GMT, which is as high as 23.8%, is concerning. We described a new modified GMT combined with internal and external rectal sclerosant injection (nmGMTSI) procedure to address this problem.MethodsThe nmGMTSI was performed under spinal anesthesia in 34 frail, elderly female patients with FTRP. The surgical results of FTRP were assessed. Fecal incontinence and constipation were evaluated using the Wexner score, and anal canal rest pressure (ACRP), maximum anal systolic pressure (MASP), anorectal sensation thresholds (AST), and maximum rectal tolerance (MRT) using anorectal manometry preoperatively and postoperatively. The causes of recurrence and complications were analyzed.ResultsAll patients were cured according to the clinical cure standard. The perioperative Wexner fecal incontinence score (WFIS) was 10.3 ± 3.31, which became 3.7 ± 2.43 (P < 0.0001) postoperatively. The perioperative ACRP was 2.0 ± 0.56 kPa, which became 8.5 ± 2.25 kPa (P < 0.0001) postoperatively. The perioperative MASP was 4.5 ± 1.16 kPa, which became 18.6 ± 2.50 kPa (P < 0.0001) postoperatively. However, no significant difference was observed between the preoperative and postoperative Wexner constipation scores (WCS) (17.3 ± 2.25 vs. 15.4 ± 2.89, P = 0.1047). The perioperative and postoperative AST were 38.1 ± 5.34 mL and 23.5 ± 3.61 mL, respectively (P = 0.0002). The maximum rectal tolerance (MRT) was 157.1 ± 16.73 mL, which became 121.2 ± 12.45 mL postoperatively (P = 0.0009). The patients developed no serious postoperative complications. The total relapse rate after nmGMTSI was 2.9% in the median two years follow-up period. The most common cause of relapse after nmGMTSI was the removal of infected threads used in the Thiersch procedure.ConclusionThe benefits of nmGMTSI include low rates of recurrence, complications, and mortality, cost-effectiveness, wide adaptation, minimal invasiveness, and technical simplicity. Hence, it should be considered the first option for the treatment of FTRP in frail elderly women.

Multicenter investigation of bowel evacuation function after transanal total mesorectal excision for mid-low rectal cancer

To determine the effect of transanal total mesorectal excision (taTME) procedure on the postoperative bowel evacuation function of patients with low rectal cancer. Bowel evacuation function was investigated in 316 patients with rectal cancer after taTME in 18 hospitals in China. Low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) score, Wexner score, and EORTC QLQ-C30 were used for functional evaluation. The association between perioperative risk factors and LARS score was determined by univariate and multivariate analyses. The prevalence rate of no LARS, minor LARS, and major LARS in patients after taTME was 39.9%, 28.2%, and 31.9%, respectively. The two most frequently reported symptoms of LARS after taTME were bowel clustering (72.8%) and fecal urgency (63.3%). Patients with major LARS had significantly higher Wexner score and worse global health status and financial difficulties according to the EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire than those without major LARS. Preoperative chemoradiotherapy was an independent risk factor of major LARS occurrence after taTME (OR: 3.503, P = 0.044); existing preoperative constipation (OR: 0.082, P = 0.040) and manual anastomosis (OR: 4.536, P = 0.021) were favorable factors affecting bowel evacuatory function within 12 months after taTME, but for patients whose follow-up time was longer than 12 months, postoperative chemoradiotherapy (OR: 8.790, P = 0.001) and defunctioning stoma (OR: 3.962, P = 0.010) were independent risk factors. The bowel evacuation function after taTME is acceptable. Perioperative chemoradiotherapy, anastomotic method, and preoperative constipation are factors associated with bowel dysfunction after taTME.

Pediatric Surgery Rate of Constipation After Sagittal Anorectoplasty For Rectoperineal Fistula

Abstract Background Rectoperineal fistula is a congenital low anorectal malformation that is presented with constipation and straining at stool. There is argument as regarding name, diagnosis and surgical treatment. Objectives to estimate the incidence of postoperative constipation among patients with rectoperineal fistula treated with anorectoplasty using Krickenbeck classification for postoperative outcomes. Patients and Methods The study was conducted between January 2018 and August 2018. The study included patients with rectoperineal fistula who underwent sagittal anorectoplasty (SARP) in the last five years in two tertiary hospitals; Ain Shams University Children Hospital and Banha Specialized Children Hospital. We excluded patients who underwent operations other than SARP and patients having Currarino syndrome and sacral anomaly like hemisacrum and caudal regression. Krickenbeck classification was used for assessment of constipation before and after operation. A simple questionnaire was used for follow up assessment. Results The study included 30 patients (19 female and 11 male). Their age at time of repair ranged from 3m to 78 months with a median age of 7.5 months. Rate of constipation in patients with rectoperineal fistula after SARP was 39%, while improvement rate was 65%. 14 patients out of 23 having preoperative constipation (61%) were treated from constipation, and one patient (4%) got improved regarding constipation grade and frequency, while remaining 8 patients (35%) were still having the same degree of constipation. There were 7 children who had no constipation before and after repair. These results were statistically significant as measured using McNemar test. Postoperative soiling was recorded in 7 patients; all of them had pseudo-incontinence (ORSI). Conclusion Rectoperineal fistula patients can gain benefit from SARP not just cosmetically, but also functionally (65% of constipated patients got improved).

Evaluation of Open Abdominal Ventral Rectopexy for Management of Complete Rectal Prolapse in Adult Male Patients

Abstract Background: Circumferential full-thickness protrusion of the rectal wall through the anus is not an uncommon surgical problem that is known as complete rectal prolapse. Many factors were accused for the pathogenesis of this clinical problem, such as straight rectum, weak fascial attachments of the rectum against the sacrum, a long redundant sigmoid colon, deep Douglas pouch, and a weak anus. Neurological illnesses, connective tissue disorders, and high parity were also found to be causes for rectal prolapse. In addition, rectal prolapse occurs more at the extremes of age. The multi-factorial etiologies of this disease resulted in a difficulty in planning for the proper treatment which is required to restore both anatomical and functional outcomes. Aim of Study: To evaluate open abdominal Ventral Rec-topexy (VR) for management of rectal prolapse in adult male patients regarding recurrence and post-operative complications. Patients and Methods: This is a retrospective study that included all adult male patients who underwent open VR for complete rectal prolapse in Colorectal Surgery Unit, Alexandria Main University Hospital during the period from January 2014 to December 2017. Data was retrieved through patients' files regarding pre-operative, operative and post-operative data, including pre-operative and post-operative Wexner score. Post-operative early and late complications were also reported. Post-operative urinary dysfunction (using International Prostate Symptom Score), sexual activity (using International Index for Erectile Function) and patients' satisfaction (using a scale from 1-5) were determined by communication with the patients through their contact numbers. Results: Thirty five patients were included in the study with a mean age of 36.3±12.9 years. Four patients (11.4%) had recurrence after a mean of 7.8±3.4 months. Out of 14 patients who reported pre-operative constipation, 10 patients reported improvement, while two patients reported newly developed constipation. Post-operatively, there was significant improvement of continence status. Patients showed satisfactory results regarding post-operative urinary dysfunction and sexual activity. Thirty patients (85.7%) were satisfied by the results of the operation.Conclusions: Ventral rectopexy for management of com-plete rectal prolapse in male patients seems to be safe and effective, with low recurrence rate and high patients' satisfac-tion regarding improved fecal incontinence, urinary dysfunction and maintained sexual activity. Prospective randomized control trials may be necessary to substantiate our results.

Role of sagittal anorectoplasty in treating constipation in patients with recto-perineal fistula

BackgroundRecto-perineal fistula is a common anorectal anomaly, affecting both males and females. The anus is abnormally anteriorly located and is usually stenotic. Management of recto-perineal fistula is a dialectic problem. The most common presenting complaint is constipation; also, long-term follow-up of these patients revealed high incidence of postoperative constipation.ResultsThe study included 30 patients (19 female and 11 male). Their age at time of repair ranged from 3 to 78 months. We compared the pre- and postoperative constipation rate after limited posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP) using Krickenbeck score. Overall, the rate of constipation has dropped from 77 (23/30) to 30% (9/30) after surgery. Fourteen patients out of 23 patients with preoperative constipation were cured. Another patient with preoperative constipation improved regarding the grade of constipation. The remaining 8 patients with preoperative constipation did not show improvement after operation. These results were statistically significant (McNemar test). Out of the 9 patients who were still constipated after surgery, 7 had associated fecal soiling that showed good response with bowel management of constipation.ConclusionLimited posterior sagittal anorectoplasty can have a role in treating constipation among cases of recto-perineal fistula.

Changes in bowel habits after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy.

IntroductionBariatric surgery has a significant impact on dietary intake, weight loss, patient’s metabolism and also on defaecation stereotypes.AimTo investigate changes in bowel habits of morbidly obese patients after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG).Material and methodsThis was a prospective clinical cohort study conducted to assess changes in bowel habits after LSG in a single institution.ResultsIn total, 124 patients were enrolled in the study (age 47.1 ±11.2 years, body mass index (BMI) 44.3 ±6.8 kg/m2). The mean weight loss 6 months after LSG was 29.1 ±11.1 kg; percentage excess weight loss was 56.2 ±20.4%. Before surgery, 35.5% of patients had constipation and 6.5% of patients had faecal incontinence (FI). No correlation was found between rising level of BMI and constipation or incontinence prevalence/severity. Data analysis has not confirmed increased prevalence/severity of postoperative constipation or incontinence 6 months after LSG. Out of the group of patients with preoperative constipation, clinically relevant improvement was noted in 45.5% of patients after the surgery. Among patients without constipation before surgery, impairment was noted in 21.2% of patients. Out of the group of patients with preoperative incontinence, improvement was found in 37.5% of patients; none of these patients reported clinically relevant impairment of incontinence symptoms.ConclusionsThe present study has not revealed increased prevalence/severity of postoperative constipation or anal incontinence 6 months after LSG. Our findings suggest that weight loss in patients after LSG might be associated with an improvement of constipation symptoms of individual patients.

Baseline severe constipation negatively impacts functional outcomes of surgery for deep endometriosis infiltrating the rectum: Results of the ENDORE randomized trial

BackgroundPredictive factors of functional outcomes after the surgery of rectal endometriosis are not well identified. Our recent randomized trial did not find significant differences between functional outcomes in patients managed by radical or conservative rectal surgery. ObjectiveTo identify preoperative factors which determine functional outcomes of surgery in patients with rectal endometriosis. Study designWe performed a cohort study on the population of a 2-arm randomised trial, from March 2011 to August 2013. Patients were enrolled in three French university hospitals and had either conservative surgery by shaving or disc excision, or radical rectal surgery by segmental resection. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients experiencing one of the following symptoms: constipation, frequent bowel movements, anal incontinence, dysuria or bladder atony requiring self-catheterisation 24 months postoperatively. Secondary endpoints were the values of the Knowles-Eccersley-Scott-Symptom Questionnaire (KESS), the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI), the Wexner scale, the Urinary Symptom Profile (USP) and the Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF36). A logistic regression model based on backward selection was used to screen for baseline factors that could impact the primary endpoint. A generalized estimating equations model for repeated measures was used to assess whether a trend could be observed over the follow-up period as regards gastrointestinal and quality of life scores. Results60 patients with deep endometriosis infiltrating the rectum were managed by conservative surgery (27 cases) and segmental colorectal resection (33 cases). The primary endpoint was recorded in 26 patients (48.1% for conservative surgery vs. 39.4% for radical surgery, OR = 0.70, 95% CI 0.22–2.21). There was a significant improvement in values of all gastrointestinal, quality of life and urinary scores after surgery. Comparing patients with KESS scores < 10 (reference) to those with scores between 10 and 17 (OR = 2.1, 95%CI 0.4–12.2), as well as those with scores >17 (OR = 11.1, 95%CI 2.2–20.5), revealed that the odds to record the primary endpoint are significantly higher in the latter group. Trend analyses suggest that the odds of an elevated KESS score are significantly higher at baseline than at 6 months, but significantly lower after 12 months. ConclusionsPatients with severe preoperative constipation are less likely to achieve normal bowel movements after surgery for rectal endometriosis, using either radical or conservative rectal procedures.

Bowel function after laparoscopic posterior sutured rectopexy versus ventral mesh rectopexy for rectal prolapse: a double-blind, randomised single-centre study

Laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy for rectal prolapse has been widely used over the past decade to reduce postoperative functional bowel disorders. We aimed to compare changes in functional outcome 12 months after laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy versus laparoscopic posterior sutured rectopexy in patients with rectal prolapse. In this double-blind, randomised trial, consecutive patients aged 18 years or older at a single centre in Denmark with full-thickness rectal prolapse were randomly assigned (1:1) to either laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy or laparoscopic posterior sutured rectopexy by drawing numbers from opaque envelopes, in blocks of four for patients with or without preoperative constipation. Functional assessment was done preoperatively and 12 months postoperatively. The primary outcome was preoperative-to-postoperative change in obstructed defecation syndrome (ODS) score. Patients and those assessing the outcomes were masked to the procedure. The primary analysis was done in the per-protocol population. Safety outcomes were assessed in the entire cohort. The trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT00946205. From Nov 1, 2006, to Jan 31, 2014, 75 consecutive patients were assigned to laparoscopic posterior sutured rectopexy (n=37) or laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy (n=38). Eight patients withdrew consent to follow-up, leaving 34 patients in the posterior sutured rectopexy group and 33 in the ventral mesh rectopexy groups for the primary analysis. The preoperative-to-postoperative reduction in ODS score was 1·97 (95% CI 0·01 to 3·93) in patients who received ventral mesh rectopexy and 2·18 (-0·14 to 4·49) in those who received posterior sutured rectopexy (difference -0·21 [-3·19 to 2·78]; p=0·890). Postoperative surgical complications of Clavien-Dindo grade II or worse were reported in one (3%) of 38 patients in the ventral mesh rectopexy group (ureteral injury resulting in urine leakage, and a psoas abscess) and one (3%) of 37 patients in the posterior sutured rectopexy group (haematoma and pelvic abscess). Two (5%) patients in the posterior sutured rectopexy group developed recurrence within 12 months compared with none in the ventral mesh rectopexy group (p=0·305). Functional outcome measured by preoperative-to-postoperative change in ODS score was not significantly superior in patients who underwent ventral mesh rectopexy compared with those who had posterior sutured rectopexy. Additional, large, randomised, multicentre studies with long-term outcomes are warranted. None.

High-Volume Transanal Surgery with CPH34 HV for the Treatment of III-IV Degree Haemorrhoids: Final Short-Term Results of an Italian Multicenter Clinical Study.

The clinical chart of 621 patients with III-IV haemorrhoids undergoing Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy (SH) with CPH34 HV in 2012–2014 was consecutively reviewed to assess its safety and efficacy after at least 12 months of follow-up. Mean volume of prolapsectomy was significantly higher (13.0 mL; SD, 1.4) in larger prolapse (9.3 mL; SD, 1.2) (p < 0.001). Residual or recurrent haemorrhoids occurred in 11 of 621 patients (1.8%) and in 12 of 581 patients (1.9%), respectively. Relapse was correlated with higher preoperative Constipation Scoring System (CSS) (p = 0.000), Pescatori's degree (p = 0.000), Goligher's grade (p = 0.003), prolapse exceeding half of the length of the Circular Anal Dilator (CAD) (p = 0.000), and higher volume of prolapsectomy (p = 0.000). At regression analysis, only the preoperative CSS, Pescatori's degree, Goligher's grade, and volume of resection were significantly predictive of relapse. A high level of satisfaction (VAS = 8.6; SD, 1.0) coupled with a reduction of 12-month CSS (Δ preoperative CSS/12 mo CSS = 3.4, SD, 2.0; p < 0.001) was observed. The wider prolapsectomy achievable with CPH34 HV determined an overall 3.7% relapse rate in patients with high prevalence of large internal rectal prolapse, coupled with high satisfaction index, significant reduction of CSS, and very low complication rates.

Rectopexy for paediatric rectal prolapse: good outcomes but not without postoperative problems.

Rectopexy is a simple treatment of persisting complete rectal prolapse (RP) or related functional disorders in children. The results of rectopexy have been encouraging with few complications. We describe the postoperative complications and outcome of rectopexy in our institution from 2002 to 2013. Ethical committee accepted the study. Hospital records of 27 successive patients (16 males), median age 7.2 (range 2.8-17) years, who underwent rectopexy (25 laparoscopic, 2 open) were reviewed. Indication for rectopexy included RP (n = 24), solitary rectal ulcer with enterocele (n = 2) and rectocele (n = 1). Nine patients (39 %) were healthy. In the remaining 14 patients, RP was secondary to anorectal malformation (n = 2), bladder exstrophy (n = 1), sacrococcygeal teratoma (n = 1) and myelomeningocele (n = 1) or associated with mental retardation (n = 8) and Asperger's syndrome (n = 1). Five (18 %) patients had constipation. Unexpected postoperative events and complications were rated by Clavien-Dindo classification (Grades I-V). Seventeen (61 %) patients had postoperative complications (Grade I n = 5, II n = 2 and III n = 7). Readmission was required in 11 (41 %) and reoperation, endoscopy or other surgical procedure in 9 (33 %) patients. Complications included severe faecal obstruction (n = 2), constipation (n = 3), faecal soiling (n = 1) urinary retention (n = 2), enuresis (n = 1), infection (n = 2), residual mucosal prolapse (n = 5), discomfort at defecation (n = 1) and recurrent RP (n = 2). Reoperations included sigmoid resection with re-rectopexy (n = 1), resection of mucosal prolapse (n = 1), suprapubic urinary catheter (n = 2), evacuation of faecal impaction (n = 2), colonoscopy (n = 3), appendicostomy for antegrade continence enema (n = 1). Mental retardation or behavioural disorder increased the risk of postoperative faecal obstruction and constipation RR = 84 (95 % CI 4.3-1600), p = 0.0035. After median follow-up of 4.1 (range 0.6-11) years RP or related condition was cured in 26 patients. Constipation and faecal soiling require management in a total of seven patients. Long-term results of rectopexy were good. Postoperative complications from mild to moderate grade were unexpectedly frequent. Preoperative neurobehavioural disorder and constipation increase the risk of postoperative problems and should be mentioned in patient counselling.

The problematic Soave cuff in Hirschsprung disease: Manifestations and treatment

PurposeFollowing a Soave pull-through for Hirschsprung disease (HD), some children struggle with obstructive symptoms. We hypothesized that these symptoms could result from a functional obstruction of the pull through caused by the Soave cuff, and that cuff resection might improve bowel emptying. MethodsWe reviewed patients referred to our center from 2008 to 2012 with obstructive problems following a Soave pull-through for HD (CCHMC IRB # 2011–2019). Only patients with an obstructing Soave cuff were analyzed. Patients with other reasons for obstruction (anastomotic stricture, transition zone, aganglionic segment) were excluded. ResultsThirty-six patients underwent reoperation at our center for obstructive symptoms after an initial Soave pull-through. Seventeen of these patients had a Soave cuff only as the potential source of obstruction. Pre-operative symptoms included enterocolitis (10), constipation (6), and failure to thrive (1). Nine patients (53%) required irrigations to manage distension or enterocolitis pre-operatively. 14/17 patients (82%) had a palpable cuff on rectal exam. Eight patients (47%) had radiographic evidence of a cuff demonstrated by distal narrowing (4) or a prominent presacral space (4). Four children (23%) underwent excision of the cuff only. Thirteen (76%) had removal of the cuff and proximally dilated colon [(average length 7.2cm) (12 performed transanally, and five needed laparotomy as well.)] Post-operatively, episodes of enterocolitis were reduced to zero, and need for irrigation to treat distension was reduced by 50%. Nine patients have voluntary bowel movements, and five are clean on enemas. 3/6 patients with pre-operative constipation or impaction now empty without enemas. (Follow up 1–17months, mean 7months.) ConclusionsRecurrent enterocolitis, constipation, or failure to thrive can indicate a functional obstruction due to a Soave cuff when no other pathologic cause exists. Physical exam or contrast enema can identify a problematic cuff. Reoperation with cuff resection can dramatically improve bowel emptying.

Su1604 Outcomes for Robotic-Assisted Rectopexy With or Without Sigmoid Colon Resection for Rectal Prolapse

Purpose : Our experience in robotic-assisted rectopexy with sigmoid colon resection (RAR+SR) or without sigmoid colon resection (RAR) was reviewed to determine if there was a significant difference in intra-operative or postoperative outcomes. Methods : We retrospectively reviewed 26 patients that underwent robotic-assisted rectopexy for rectal prolapse from 2006 to 2012. Rectopexy is performed with primary suture pexy and without mesh. Continuous variables were analyzed by t-test, while Fisher's exact test was applied for categorical data. Results : Twenty-two patients underwent RAR and 4 patients underwent RAR+SR. The average age for study participants was 56 years (range 21-78 years) and consisted of 4 men and 22 women. Recurrent rectal prolapse occurred in 2 patients at 3 and 30 months after surgery in the RAR group and no recurrence occurred in the RAR+SR group (p=1.00). The duration of surgery for RAR was 211 minutes versus 309 minutes for RAR+SR (p,0.001, CI 60.8 135.4). Intra-operative blood loss for RAR was 97.8mL compared to 87.5mL for RAR+SR (p=0.924, CI -77.4 89.7). Conversion to open procedure occurred twice with RAR and once with RAR+SR (p=0.407). Length of hospitalization averaged 3 days for RAR and 4 days for RAR+SR (p=0.196, CI -0.2 2.2). The mean follow up was 127 days (range 1-72 months). Eight of 10 patients with preoperative constipation subjectively noted improvement with RAR versus 1 of 2 patients with RAR+SR (p=0.455). Six of 10 patients with preoperative fecal incontinence had subjectively improved symptoms with RAR versus 1 of 2 patients with RAR+SR (p=1.00). Six patients in the RAR group experienced a postoperative complication (over-sedation, corneal abrasion, atrial flutter, pulmonary edema, pelvic hematoma, ileus) versus 1 complication (urinary retention) after RAR+SR (p=0.924). There were no mortalities and no complications requiring operative intervention. Conclusions : The majority of patients underwent RAR and outcomes for RAR versus RAR+SR were not significantly different in this series with the exception of increased operative time for RAR+SR. The recurrence rate was 8% and the complication rate was 27% with the majority of complications being minor complications.

Su1605 Anastomotic Leak Following Anterior Resection for Rectal Cancer: Does the Presence of a Defunctioning Stoma Reduce the Burden of a Leak ?

Purpose : Our experience in robotic-assisted rectopexy with sigmoid colon resection (RAR+SR) or without sigmoid colon resection (RAR) was reviewed to determine if there was a significant difference in intra-operative or postoperative outcomes. Methods : We retrospectively reviewed 26 patients that underwent robotic-assisted rectopexy for rectal prolapse from 2006 to 2012. Rectopexy is performed with primary suture pexy and without mesh. Continuous variables were analyzed by t-test, while Fisher's exact test was applied for categorical data. Results : Twenty-two patients underwent RAR and 4 patients underwent RAR+SR. The average age for study participants was 56 years (range 21-78 years) and consisted of 4 men and 22 women. Recurrent rectal prolapse occurred in 2 patients at 3 and 30 months after surgery in the RAR group and no recurrence occurred in the RAR+SR group (p=1.00). The duration of surgery for RAR was 211 minutes versus 309 minutes for RAR+SR (p,0.001, CI 60.8 135.4). Intra-operative blood loss for RAR was 97.8mL compared to 87.5mL for RAR+SR (p=0.924, CI -77.4 89.7). Conversion to open procedure occurred twice with RAR and once with RAR+SR (p=0.407). Length of hospitalization averaged 3 days for RAR and 4 days for RAR+SR (p=0.196, CI -0.2 2.2). The mean follow up was 127 days (range 1-72 months). Eight of 10 patients with preoperative constipation subjectively noted improvement with RAR versus 1 of 2 patients with RAR+SR (p=0.455). Six of 10 patients with preoperative fecal incontinence had subjectively improved symptoms with RAR versus 1 of 2 patients with RAR+SR (p=1.00). Six patients in the RAR group experienced a postoperative complication (over-sedation, corneal abrasion, atrial flutter, pulmonary edema, pelvic hematoma, ileus) versus 1 complication (urinary retention) after RAR+SR (p=0.924). There were no mortalities and no complications requiring operative intervention. Conclusions : The majority of patients underwent RAR and outcomes for RAR versus RAR+SR were not significantly different in this series with the exception of increased operative time for RAR+SR. The recurrence rate was 8% and the complication rate was 27% with the majority of complications being minor complications.

Urgency, Detrusor Overactivity and Posterior Vault Prolapse in Women Who Underwent Pelvic Organ Prolapse Repair

Introduction: We investigated the relationship between posterior vault prolapse and overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms or detrusor overactivity (DO) and their changes after surgical repair. Methods: Forty-three patients with vault prolapse and prevalent posterior compartment prolapse -underwent pelvic organ prolapse repair surgery: 28 received colposacropexy and 15 were treated by the vaginal approach. Subjective success was lack of prolapse-related symptoms or urgency. OAB symptoms, voiding symptoms and constipation were evaluated. Patient satisfaction was defined by a visual analog scale score (range 0-10). Objective anatomical success was defined as no vaginal prolapse of stage ≥2 at any vaginal site. Results: The median follow-up was 75 months (range 24-143). Preoperatively, 33/43 patients (76.74%) reported urgency. DO was found in 11/43 patients (25.6%), and 22/43 patients reported constipation. The anatomical outcome showed 2 persistent stage II rectoceles (6.9%). After surgery, OAB symptoms disappeared in 25/33 (75.88%) and persisted in 8 patients (24.2%); there was no de novo urgency. DO disappeared in 8/11 subjects (72.7%). Preoperative constipation was present in 17/33 patients with OAB symptoms (51.5%) and disappeared postoperatively in 13/17 patients (76.4%) (p < 0.013). De novo constipation appeared in 3 patients (associated with OAB in 2 patients). Conclusions: Prevalent posterior compartment pelvic organ prolapse and OAB/DO were often associated. After surgery, OAB symptoms and DO were significantly reduced.