Anorectal Function and Quality of Life after Transrectal Rigid-Hybrid Natural Orifice Translumenal Endoscopic...

In transrectal rigid-hybrid natural orifice translumenal endoscopic sigmoidectomy (trNS), extraction-site laparotomy is avoided, which reduces postoperative pain and improves recovery time. However, current research evaluating anorectal function after trNS is limited. This study aims to evaluate clinical continence, anorectal manometry, and quality of life in patients undergoing trNS for diverticular disease.

Between November 2013 and October 2015, patients undergoing trNS for diverticular disease were prospectively included. Patients converted to laparoscopic resection with an extraction-site laparotomy before attempted transrectal access were excluded. Anorectal manometry, including measurement of resting pressure, squeeze pressure, and retention tests; and questionnaires on continence, defecation, quality of life, and cosmesis, were obtained before and at 3 and 6 months after surgery.

Twenty-five patients were enrolled in the study. Four were converted and 1 was lost to follow-up, leaving 20 patients included in the study. Mean anal resting pressure before surgery was 59.3 mmHg (95% CI, 51.81-66.79 mmHg), decreasing to 48.85 mmHg (95% CI, 43.75-53.95 mmHg) at 3 months (p = 0.015). It normalized to 53.45 mmHg (95% CI, 47.78-59.12 mmHg) at 6 months (p = 0.168). Maximum anal squeeze pressure, retention tests, and St Marks incontinence score remained unchanged during the follow-up. Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index remained high before (124 points) and at 6 months after surgery (128.8 points; p = 0.544).

Six months after trNS, neither clinical continence nor manometric findings deteriorated. Quality of life after trNS for recurrent diverticulitis is excellent. Long-term implications of a temporary decline in resting pressure after 3 months remain unclear and warrant long-term follow-up.