Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 6, 2026

Surgical Robot-Assisted Transanal Specimen Extraction Radical Sigmoidectomy Without an Auxiliary Abdominal Incision
Published on: June 13, 2025
Quality of life of patients undergoing surgery for obstructed defecation syndrome: A before-after study
Emanuela Racaniello1, Stefano Terzoni2, Roberto Accardi3
1General Surgery Unit, Fondazione Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Francesco Sforza 32, Milan, Italy.
Introduction:
Obstructed defecation syndrome (ODS) is the inability to evacuate the contents of the rectum. It is a common problem with both social and psychological effects on a patient's quality of life. Surgery has proven effective and safe in reducing symptoms, with subsequent improvement of quality of life (QOL).
Methods:
This study evaluates QOL both before and after surgery (three months) in a series of 96 patients. The Short Form-12 (SF-12) and ODS questionnaires were scored and pain during voiding was assessed by means of the Numerical Rating Scale.
Results:
92 consecutive patients were studied. After three months, pain and ODS scores improved significantly. General QOL also improved significantly.
Discussion:
More than three months from surgery might be necessary in order to obtain more useful information regarding the effects of surgery on both physical and mental health. However this study suggests the benefits are seen even in the early post-operative period.
Conclusion:
After three months general quality of life shows a improvement and hopefully these results will be sustained (or even improved) in the longer term.
Related Concept Videos
Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy
Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a flexible sigmoidoscope equipped with a light source and camera to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. The procedure involves inserting the tube through the anus...
Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:
Peripheral Artery Disease V: Postoperative Nursing Management
Drugs for Treatment of Constipation-Predominant IBS
Irritable Bowel Syndrome III: Medical and Nursing Management
Peptic Ulcer Disease V: Surgical Management and Nursing Care
Surgical Interventions for Peptic Ulcer Disease
