Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 21, 2025

Murine Distal Colostomy, A Novel Model of Diversion Colitis in C57BL/6 Mice
Published on: July 12, 2018
Does Long-Term Bowel Function Change After Colectomy for Colon Malignancy?
Phillip J Gray1, Amanda J Bastien1, Mark A Eid1
1Department of Surgery, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, New Hampshire; Geisel School of Medicine, Hanover, New Hampshire.
Long-term colectomy for colon cancer improves stool-related symptoms like pain and bleeding. This study evaluated patient-reported bowel function changes after surgery, offering insights for preoperative counseling.
Area of Science:
- Colorectal surgery
- Oncology
- Patient-reported outcomes
Background:
- Understanding bowel function after colectomy for colon cancer is crucial for patient counseling.
- Previous research shows short-term increases in bowel movement frequency but no overall functional change.
- Long-term functional changes after colectomy remain largely unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate long-term changes in patient-reported bowel function following colectomy for colon cancer.
Main Methods:
- An observational study involving patients who underwent colectomy for colon cancer.
- Utilized the Colorectal Functional Outcome (COREFO) questionnaire preoperatively and at long-term follow-up (median 16 months).
- Assessed quality of life using the Patient Reported Outcome Measurement Information System-10 (PROMIS-10).
Main Results:
- Sixty-six patients completed the study.
- Significant improvements were observed in stool-related aspects, including pain, bleeding, and anal skin irritation.
- No significant changes were noted in other COREFO domains or the total score.
- PROMIS-10 scores indicated quality of life comparable to the general US population.
Conclusions:
- Colectomy for colon cancer leads to long-term improvements in specific stool-related symptoms.
- These findings should be incorporated into evidence-based preoperative patient counseling.
Related Concept Videos
Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:
Assessment of the Rectum and Anus
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
Endoscopic Procedures II: Colonoscopy
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...
Chronic Bowel Disorders: Introduction
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder affecting the gastrointestinal tract. The distinctive feature is recurrent abdominal pain associated with altered bowel movements, manifesting as constipation, diarrhea, or fluctuating between both. The...
Appendicitis-II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
Diagnosing Appendicitis
It requires a multifaceted approach, starting with a detailed physical examination to pinpoint the location and nature of the pain and identify any associated symptoms. Laboratory tests play a crucial role. A complete Blood Count (CBC) typically reveals leukocytosis (an increased number of...

