The Process of Adapting to Altered Bowel Function in Patients With Rectal Cancer: A Grounded Theory Study

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Gastroenterology
• Psychosocial Oncology

Background:

• Rectal cancer treatment, such as low anterior resection, frequently leads to altered bowel function.
• This condition, known as low anterior resection syndrome (LARS), significantly impacts patients' quality of life and adaptation processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a theoretical framework explaining the adaptation process for patients experiencing altered bowel function after rectal cancer treatment.
• To understand the patient journey from initial distress to self-empowerment in managing LARS.

Main Methods:

• A constructivist grounded theory approach was employed.
• 24 patients experiencing LARS were recruited through theoretical sampling at a Taiwanese cancer center.
• Data were collected via in-depth interviews and analyzed using constant comparative methods.

Main Results:

• A substantive theory of adaptation to altered bowel function was developed.
• Key categories included: altered bowel functioning experiences, distress, motivation for self-empowerment, dynamic self-regulation, and "living with" the condition.
• The core category identified was "The journey from painful struggles toward self-empowerment."

Conclusions:

• Findings can guide healthcare professionals in assessing patient distress and supporting self-empowerment.
• Tailored resources and information are crucial for developing self-care strategies.
• Future research could focus on developing tools to evaluate distress and create supportive protocols for patients managing LARS.