Clinical Report: Diverse Patterns of Low Anterior Resection Syndrome After Reversal of Ileostomy
Overview
This study assesses low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) symptoms in rectal cancer patients post-ileostomy reversal, identifying three distinct symptom trajectories. Key clinical factors influencing these trajectories include T stage, anastomotic height, and preoperative radiotherapy.
Background
Low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) is a common complication following sphincter-preserving surgery for rectal cancer, characterized by bowel dysfunction symptoms. This study utilizes group-based trajectory modeling to analyze these trajectories in a cohort of rectal cancer patients.
Data Highlights
Trajectory Group
Percentage of Patients
Mild and Recovering
30.6%
Moderate and Fluctuating
40.3%
Severe and Persistent
29.1%
Key Findings
Three distinct LARS symptom trajectories identified: mild and recovering, moderate and fluctuating, severe and persistent.
30.6% of patients fell into the mild trajectory, with most improving by 12 months.
40.3% experienced moderate and fluctuating symptoms.
29.1% had severe and persistent symptoms, with nearly half still experiencing major LARS at 12 months.
Higher T stage, lower anastomotic height, and preoperative radiotherapy were associated with worse symptom trajectories.
Symptom severity differed significantly among the three groups at all time points (P < 0.001).
Clinical Implications
Recognizing the clinical factors associated with LARS trajectories may assist healthcare providers in understanding patient recovery patterns.
Conclusion
The study identifies distinct LARS symptom trajectories in rectal cancer patients post-ileostomy reversal, highlighting the role of specific clinical factors.
