Patient quality of life after successful restorative proctocolectomy is normal

To measure quality of life (QoL), using validated health status instruments, of patients with functioning IPAA for CUC.

Between 1986 and 1997, a total of 77 patients had an IPAA. Thirteen patients were excluded [6 excised, 3 awaiting ileostomy closure, 2 lost to follow up, 2 serious unrelated illnesses]. Postal survey using SF36 and EuroQol questionnaires. Age, sex, year of pouch construction and stool frequency were documented.

Fifty-six patients (87.5%) replied. Male:female ratio; 3:2. Median age; 34 years (range 13-64). Median time since pouch construction; 4 years (range 1-10 years). Median SF36 scores (range); physical function 86.6 (0-100), physical role 81.6 (0-100), body pain 78.4 (22-100), general health 61.6 (5-100), vitality 57.6 (5-100), social function 75.4 (25-100), emotional role 83.5 (0-100), mental health 70.7 (16-100). All the SF36 scores were within the normal range, as were the EuroQol scores. Median EuroQol score (range); 0.85 (-0.07-1.0). Median EuroQol thermometer score (range); 83.3 (20-100). There was no correlation between objective QoL score and age, gender, stool frequency and year of pouch construction.

The QoL for patients with a functioning IPAA for CUC measured using validated health status instruments is normal. Age, gender, stool frequency and year of construction do not affect QoL outcome after the IPAA for ulcerative colitis.