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International Journal of Colorectal Disease

Published in:

01-11-2007 | Original Article

Effect of neoadjuvant chemoradiation on postoperative fecal continence and anal sphincter function in rectal cancer patients

Authors: Alexander P. Pietsch, Rainer Fietkau, Günther Klautke, Thomas Foitzik, Ernst Klar

Published in: International Journal of Colorectal Disease | Issue 11/2007

Abstract

Background and aims

Neoadjuvant chemoradiation (nCRT) followed by curative surgery has gained acceptance as the therapy of choice in locally advanced rectal cancer. This prospective study evaluates the effect of nCRT on postoperative anorectal function and continence.

Patients and methods

Group A consisted of 12 patients (59.8 ± 11.9 years, male:female = 8:4) who received nCRT (5-FU, CPT-11. 45 + 5.4 Gy boost) before surgery and Group B of 27 patients (61.9 ± 10.6 years, male:female = 16:11) who were treated by surgery alone. All patients received a questionnaire to evaluate stool continence and anorectal function before as well as after surgery. Anorectal function was further analyzed by perfusion manometry pre- and postoperatively.

Results

Preoperatively, none of the patients had signs or symptoms of fecal incontinence, and preoperative measurements showed values within normal limits. Postoperatively, fecal continence was impaired in both groups, but no significant difference was found between patients with or without nCRT. Anorectal manometry revealed an impairment of anorectal function after low anterior resection regardless of the treatment regime.

Conclusion

nCRT does not impair anorectal function and fecal continence. The deterioration of continence and anal sphincter function after sphincter preserving surgery is solely caused by the surgical procedure.

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Title: Effect of neoadjuvant chemoradiation on postoperative fecal continence and anal sphincter function in rectal cancer patients
Authors: Alexander P. Pietsch
Rainer Fietkau
Günther Klautke
Thomas Foitzik
Ernst Klar
Publication date: 01-11-2007
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: International Journal of Colorectal Disease / Issue 11/2007
Print ISSN: 0179-1958
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1262
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00384-007-0322-y

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Effect of neoadjuvant chemoradiation on postoperative fecal continence and anal sphincter function in rectal cancer patients

Abstract

Background and aims

Patients and methods

Results

Conclusion

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background and aims

Patients and methods

Results

Conclusion

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