Does Bowel Function Change After Colectomy for Colon Malignancy?

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Oncology
• Patient-Reported Outcomes

Background:

• Colon cancer surgery impacts bowel function, but data is conflicting, complicating patient counseling.
• Understanding postoperative bowel function changes is crucial for managing patient expectations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate changes in patient-reported bowel function after colectomy for colon cancer.
• To identify factors associated with symptomatic bowel function post-surgery.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected database (July 2015-June 2019).
• Included patients underwent colectomy for colon adenocarcinoma and completed the Colorectal Functional Outcome (COREFO) questionnaire preoperatively and postoperatively.
• Paired t-tests and multivariable analysis were used to compare scores and identify associated factors.

Main Results:

• 117 patients were analyzed; mean age 64 ± 13 years.
• Bowel movement frequency significantly increased post-colectomy (mean score 9.72 to 14.2, P=0.003).
• Male patients and those with preoperative symptomatic frequency were more likely to report symptomatic postoperative frequency.

Conclusions:

• Patient-reported bowel movement frequency worsens after colectomy for colon cancer.
• Overall bowel function remains unchanged, but specific factors predict worsening frequency.
• Findings support personalized, evidence-based preoperative counseling for colon cancer patients.