Long-term results of stapled transanal rectal resection (STARR) for obstructive defecation syndrome

Rectocele and distal rectal intussusception are organic causes of obstructive defecation syndrome and can be corrected surgically once conservative treatment remedies have been exhausted. Stapled transanal rectal resection (STARR) procedure was introduced as a new treatment approach. This study presents the first long-term results of this procedure. PATIENTS AND PROCEDURES: A STARR procedure was performed in 14 patients (two male, 12 female, age 53 ± 12 years) between January 2003 and August 2005. The indication for surgery was a severe, conservatively treated stool evacuation disorder secondary to symptomatic rectocele and/or distal intussusception.

The mean follow-up period was 68 ± 10 (49-83) months. The defecation score (0-20 points) decreased from a preoperative 13.4 ± 3.4 to 3.2 ± 2.0 after 3 months and increased slightly to 4.7 ± 3.4 by the time of the final examination. In 12 patients (85.7%), the obstructive defecation syndrome was significantly improved. These positive results were also maintained in the long-term. Five patients (38.5%) reported a slight worsening of continence in terms of urge incontinence. The most affected patients were those with preoperative normal continence. Procedure-related anal reoperations were required in two patients (14.3%).

Even in long-term, transanal rectal wall resection seems to be an effective therapy for obstructive defecation syndrome. However, it is associated with a substantial number of reoperations and in some patients with persistent urge incontinence.