Ostomy function after abdominoperineal resection-a clinical and patient evaluation.

• PURPOSE: Abdominoperineal resection (APR) for rectal cancer results in a permanent colostomy. As a consequence of a recent change in operative technique from standard (S-APR) to extralevator resection (E-APR), the perineal part of the procedure is now performed with the patient in a prone jackknife position. The impact of this change on stoma function is unknown. The aim was to determine stoma-related complications and the individual patient experience of a stoma. METHODS: Consecutive patients with rectal cancer operated on with APR in one institution in 2004 to 2009 were included. Recurrent cancer, palliative procedures, pre-existing stoma and patients not alive at the start of the study were excluded. Data were collected from hospital records and the national colorectal cancer registry. A questionnaire was sent out to patients. The median follow-up was 44months (13-84) after primary surgery. RESULTS: Ninety-six patients were alive in February 2011. Seventy seven agreed to participate. Sixty-nine patients (90%) returned the questionnaire. Stoma necrosis was more common for E-APR, 34% vs. 10%, but bandaging problems and low stoma height were more common for S-APR. There were no differences in the patients' experience of stoma function. In all, 35% of the patients felt dirty and unclean, but 90% felt that they had a full life and could engage in leisure activities of their choice. CONCLUSIONS: This exploratory study indicates no difference in stoma function after 1year between S-APR and E-APR. Over 90% of the patients accept their stoma, but our study indicates that more information and support for patients are warranted.

Ämnesord

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Klinisk medicin -- Kirurgi (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Clinical Medicine -- Surgery (hsv//eng)

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Klinisk medicin -- Cancer och onkologi (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Clinical Medicine -- Cancer and Oncology (hsv//eng)

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