Awareness and management of low anterior resection syndrome: A Dutch national survey among colorectal surgeons and specialized nurses.

INTRODUCTION

Substantial progress has been made in the treatment of rectal cancer in the past two decades. Low anterior resection is a cornerstone in current treatment, combined with neo-adjuvant (chemo-) radiation in selected cases. However, side effects such as increased frequency, urgency and incontinence are seen in a majority of patients postoperatively. These symptoms, referred to as low anterior resection syndrome (LARS), have a severe impact on quality of life. Management of LARS is complex, and surgeons seem to underestimate and misinterpret the impact of symptoms associated with LARS.

AIM AND METHODS

We investigated the awareness and management of LARS in The Netherlands, conducting a national survey in which colorectal surgeons and colorectal care nurses were asked for their views on this complex syndrome.

RESULTS

242 health-care professionals participated in the survey. Most participants estimate the prevalence of major LARS is 20-40% after low anterior resection (LAR); a severe underestimation of actual prevalence - around 70%. Only 10% of surgeons use LARS screening tools in the preoperative period, and fewer than half of surgeons use LARS scores before or after a LAR. Although most surgeons inform their patients preoperatively about the changes in bowel function that they may experience after rectal cancer treatment, a majority of these surgeons indicate more information and patient counselling would improve the quality of life of their patients.

DISCUSSION

Impact and prevalence of LARS is underestimated by their physicians. Uniform clinical guidelines should be developed to guide physicians in adequate management of patients with LARS.