Low Anterior Resection Syndrome: Current Management and Future Directions

Abstract Outcomes for rectal cancer surgery have improved significantly over the past 20 years with increasing rates of survival and recurrence, specifically local recurrence. These gains have been realized during a period of time in which there has been an increasing emphasis on sphincter preservat...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Clinics in colon and rectal surgery 2016-09, Vol.29 (3), p.239-245
Main Authors: Ridolfi, Timothy J., Berger, Nicholas, Ludwig, Kirk A.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Review
Review Article
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Summary:Abstract Outcomes for rectal cancer surgery have improved significantly over the past 20 years with increasing rates of survival and recurrence, specifically local recurrence. These gains have been realized during a period of time in which there has been an increasing emphasis on sphincter preservation. As we have become increasingly aggressive in avoiding resection of the anus, we have begun accepting bowel dysfunction as a normal outcome. Low anterior resection syndrome, defined as a constellation of symptoms including incontinence, frequency, urgency, or feelings of incomplete emptying, has a significant impact on quality of life and results in many patients opting for a permanent colostomy to avoid these symptoms. In this article, we will highlight the most recent clinical and basic science research on this topic and discuss areas of future investigation.
ISSN:1531-0043
1530-9681
DOI:10.1055/s-0036-1584500