Changes to gastrointestinal function after surgery for colorectal cancer

Area of Science:

• Colorectal surgery
• Surgical oncology
• Patient outcomes

Background:

• Bowel function is a critical consideration for patients undergoing colorectal cancer surgery.
• Advances in surgical techniques and technology have reduced the need for long-term stomas, but often at the expense of impaired bowel function.
• Balancing oncological outcomes with functional results is crucial when discussing treatment options with patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the importance of bowel function as a surgical outcome in colorectal cancer.
• To discuss strategies for optimizing bowel function in the perioperative period.
• To review long-term functional deficits and emerging management strategies.

Main Methods:

• Review of current surgical practices and technological advancements in colorectal cancer surgery.
• Analysis of perioperative interventions, including minimally invasive surgery and enhanced recovery after surgery protocols.
• Examination of the impact of surgical complications on bowel function.
• Overview of long-term gastrointestinal dysfunction and management strategies for low anterior resection syndrome.

Main Results:

• Minimally invasive surgery and enhanced recovery after surgery protocols show promise for improving perioperative bowel function.
• Early detection and management of complications like anastomotic leak and stricture are vital to prevent long-term functional deficits.
• Diarrhea and low anterior resection syndrome are common long-term issues following colon and rectal cancer surgery, respectively.

Conclusions:

• Optimizing bowel function alongside oncological control is essential for colorectal cancer patients.
• Perioperative strategies and diligent management of complications can mitigate negative impacts on bowel function.
• Emerging multi-modal treatments offer significant potential to improve quality of life for patients experiencing low anterior resection syndrome after rectal cancer surgery.