Function after anoabdominal rectal resection and colonic J pouch--anal anastomosis

Twenty-eight patients undergoing anoabdominal resection of the rectum with construction of a colonic J reservoir and eight patients without a reservoir were studied 2 years after surgery. Frequency of defaecation and daytime soiling were inversely correlated with the maximum tolerable volume of the colonic J pouch. The distensibility and threshold volume of those with a pouch were significantly greater than in those without a pouch 6 months or more after stoma closure. Anal resting pressure, squeeze pressure, anal canal length and a positive inhibitory reflex were similar in both groups. Anal resting pressure, squeeze pressure and pouch distensibility correlated with frequency of defaecation in the stable phase. Pouch construction may improve the patient's quality of life in the adaptation phase.