Caracterización de enfermos operados de cáncer rectal. Hospital Universitario Clínico Quirúrgico Comandante Faustino Pérez Hernández / Characterization of patients operated of rectal cancer. Teaching Clinic-Surgical Hospital Faustino Pérez Hernández

RESUMEN Introducción: el cáncer de recto se considera una de las neoplasias más frecuentes del siglo XXI, con elevada mortalidad. Objetivo: caracterizar a los pacientes operados de cáncer rectal en el Hospital Universitario Clínico Quirúrgico Comandante Faustino Pérez Hernández, de Matanzas, entre enero de 2015 y diciembre de 2018. Materiales y métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional descriptivo. El universo fue de 97 pacientes de ambos sexos, operados de cáncer rectal. Se obtuvieron los datos de las historias clínicas individuales. Se analizaron variables como edad, sexo, localización específica del tumor, manifestaciones clínicas, características anatomopatológicas y estadios de la enfermedad, técnica quirúrgica empleada y complicaciones postoperatorias durante los primeros siete días. El método estadístico utilizado fue la distribución de frecuencia, en valores absolutos y porcentajes. Resultados: entre los pacientes operados de cáncer rectal, predominaron las personas de 70 a 79 años y el sexo masculino. El recto superior fue el sitio de mayor localización. El sangrado rectal, la expulsión de flemas y los cambios del hábito intestinal fueron los síntomas más frecuentes. El adenocarcinoma bien diferenciado fue la variedad histológica de mayor incidencia, y los estadios que prevalecieron fueron el II y el III. La técnica quirúrgica más empleada fue la resección anterior, y la complicación más frecuente la infección del sitio quirúrgico. Conclusiones: prevenir los factores de riesgo, sus causas predisponentes y desencadenantes, utilizar los medios diagnósticos convencionales y de avanzada. Detectar y tratar de forma temprana la enfermedad puede lograr mejor calidad de vida en estos pacientes (AU).

ABSTRACT Introduction: rectal cancer is considered one of the most frequent neoplasia of the 21st century, with high mortality. Objective: to characterize patients who underwent rectal cancer surgery at the Teaching Clinic-Surgical Hospital Faustino Pérez Hernández, of Matanzas, between January 2015 and December 2018. Materials and methods: a descriptive observational study was carried out. The universe was 97 patients of both sexes, who underwent a rectal cancer surgery. Data were obtained from individual medical records. Variables such as age, sex, specific tumor location, clinical manifestations, anatomopathologic characteristics and stages of the disease, surgical technique used and post-surgery complications during the first seven days were analyzed. The statistical method used was the frequency distribution, in absolute values and percentages. Results: people aged 70-79 years and men predominated among patients with rectal cancer. The upper rectum was the site of most common location. Rectal bleeding, phlegm expulsion, and changes in bowel habit were the most frequent symptoms. Well-differentiated adenocarcinoma was the most prevalent histological variety, and the stages that prevailed were II and III. The most commonly used surgical technique was anterior resection, and the most common complication was surgical site infection. Conclusions: to prevent risk factors, their predisposing causes and triggers; to use conventional and advanced diagnostic means. Early detection and treatment of the disease can achieve better quality of life in these patients (AU).

Cancer survivors' challenges with ostomy appliances and self-management: a qualitative analysis.

PURPOSE: An ostomy poses significant health-related quality of life (HRQOL) issues for cancer survivors. Survivors must learn to manage pouching appliances and adjust to the psychosocial consequences of living with an ostomy. We explored, through qualitative analysis, the challenges with self-management and ostomy appliances reported by cancer survivors. METHODS: Pooled data from two studies with a question on the greatest challenge of living with an ostomy and intervention session notes were analyzed using content analysis approach. The themes were reviewed and agreed upon by the research team, and counts were tallied for each theme based on the number of times they were mentioned by participants. RESULTS: Of the 928 greatest challenge responses and session notes, a total of 106 mentions (11%) were focused on ostomy appliances, associated repercussions, and time taken for ostomy care. Eight themes emerged: bleeding, pain, leakage, skin problems/irritation/rash, wafer-related issues, materials getting under the wafer, time to care for ostomy, and solutions to clean the stoma. Challenges described included poor wafer adherence, allergic reactions to adhesives, and pain around the stoma site. These challenges resulted in anxiety related to leakage, odor, and/or skin irritation, which negatively impacted on participation in social activities and self-confidence with ostomy care. CONCLUSIONS: Cancer survivors living with an ostomy experience multiple obstacles with ostomy appliances and caring for their ostomy. Continued innovation in ostomy appliance design and technology is needed to help cancer survivors with successfully managing ostomy care.

Multicentre, randomised trial comparing acellular porcine collagen implant versus gluteus maximus myocutaneous flap for reconstruction of the pelvic floor after extended abdominoperineal excision of rectum: study protocol for the Nordic Extended Abdominoperineal Excision (NEAPE) study.

INTRODUCTION: Different surgical techniques are used to cover the defect in the floor of the lesser pelvis after an 'extralevator' or 'extended' abdominoperineal excision for advanced rectal cancer. However, these operations are potentially mutilating, and the reconstruction method of the pelvic floor has been studied only sparsely. We aim to study whether a porcine-collagen implant is superior or equally beneficial to a gluteus maximus myocutaneous flap as a reconstruction method. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: This is a multicentre non-blinded randomised controlled trial with the experimental arm using a porcine-collagen implant and the control arm using a gluteus maximus muscle and skin rotation flap. Considered for inclusion are patients with rectal cancer, who are operated on with a wide abdominoperineal rectal excision including most of the levator muscles and where the muscle remnants cannot be closed in the midline with sutures. Patients with a primary or recurrent rectal cancer with an estimated survival of more than a year are eligible. The randomisation is computer generated with a concealed sequence and stratified by participating hospital and preoperative radiotherapy regimen. The main outcome is physical performance 6 months after surgery measured with the timed-stands test. Secondary outcomes are perineal wound healing, surgical complications, quality of life, ability to sit and other outcomes measured at 3, 6 and 12 months after surgery. To be able to state experimental arm non-inferiority with a 10% margin of the primary outcome with 90% statistical power and assuming 10% attrition, we aim to enrol 85 patients from May 2011 onwards. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: The study has been approved by the Regional Ethical Review board at Umeå University (protocol no: NEAPE-2010-335-31M). The results will be disseminated through patient associations and conventional scientific channels. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT01347697; Pre-results.

Factors preventing restoration of bowel continuity in patients with rectal cancer submitted to anterior rectal resection and protective ileostomy. / Fatores associados a não reconstrução do trânsito intestinal em pacientes com câncer retal submetidos à ressecção anterior do reto e ileostomia de proteção.

OBJECTIVE: to evaluate the factors associated with non-closure of protective ileostomy after anterior resection of the rectum with total mesorectum excision for rectal cancer, the morbidity associated with the closure of ileostomies and the rate of permanent ileostomy in patients with rectal adenocarcinoma. METHODS: we conducted a retrospective study with 174 consecutive patients diagnosed with rectal tumors, of whom 92 underwent anterior resection of the rectum with coloanal or colorectal anastomosis and protective ileostomy, with curative intent. We carried out a multivariate analysis to determine the factors associated with definite permanence of the stoma, as well as studied the morbidity of patients who underwent bowel continuity restoration. RESULTS: In the 84-month follow-up period, 54 of the 92 patients evaluated (58.7%) had the ileostomy closed and 38 (41.3%) remained with the stoma. Among the 62 patients who had the ileostomy closed, 11 (17.7%) presented some type of postoperative complication: three had ileal anastomosis dehiscence, five had intestinal obstruction, two had surgical wound infection, and one, pneumonia. Eight of these patients required a new stoma. CONCLUSION: according to the multivariate analysis, the factors associated with stoma permanence were anastomotic fistula, presence of metastases and closure of the ileostomy during chemotherapy.

OBJETIVO: avaliar os fatores associados ao não fechamento de ileostomia protetora após ressecção anterior do reto com excisão total do mesorreto por câncer retal, a morbidade associada ao fechamento destas ileostomias e a taxa de estomia permanente em pacientes com adenocarcinoma retal. MÉTODOS: estudo retrospectivo de 174 pacientes consecutivos com diagnóstico de tumores retais, dos quais 92 foram submetidos à ressecção anterior do reto com intenção curativa, anastomose coloanal ou colorretal e ileostomia de proteção. Foi realizada análise multivariada visando a determinar os fatores associados à permanência definitiva da estomia, assim como o estudo da morbidade nos que se submeteram à reconstrução do trânsito. RESULTADOS: no período de seguimento de 84 meses, 54 dos 92 pacientes avaliados (58,7%) tiveram a ileostomia fechada e 38 (41,3%) permaneceram com a estomia. Entre os 62 pacientes que tiveram a ileostomia fechada, 11 (17,7%) apresentaram algum tipo de complicação pós-operatória: três com deiscência de anastomose ileal, cinco com obstrução intestinal, dois com infecção de ferida operatória e um com pneumonia. Oito destes pacientes necessitaram de um novo estoma. CONCLUSÃO: de acordo com a análise multivariada, os fatores associados à permanência da estomia foram fístula de anastomose, presença de metástases e fechamento da ileostomia durante quimioterapia.

Prehabilitation is feasible in patients with rectal cancer undergoing neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy and may minimize physical deterioration: results from the REx trial.

AIM: Rectal cancer patients undergoing neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NACRT) experience physical deterioration and reductions in their quality of life. This feasibility study assessed prehabilitation (a walking intervention) before, during and after NACRT to inform a definitive multi-centred randomized clinical trial (REx trial). METHODS: Patients planned for NACRT followed by potentially curative surgery were approached (August 2014-March 2016) (www.isrctn.com; 62859294). Prior to NACRT, baseline physical and psycho-social data were recorded using validated tools. Participants were randomized to either the intervention group (exercise counselling session followed by a 13-17 week telephone-guided walking programme) or a control group (standard care). Follow-up testing was undertaken 1-2 weeks before surgery. RESULTS: Of the 296 screened patients, 78 (26%) were eligible and 48 (61%) were recruited. N = 31 (65%) were men with a mean age of 65.9 years (range 33.7-82.6). Mean intervention duration was 14 weeks with 75% adherence. n = 40 (83%) completed follow-up testing. Both groups recorded reductions in daily walking but the reduction was less in the intervention group although not statistically significant. Participants reported high satisfaction and fidelity to trial procedures. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that prehabilitation is feasible in rectal cancer patients undergoing NACRT. Good recruitment, adherence, retention and patient satisfaction rates support the development of a fully powered trial. The effects of the intervention on physical outcomes were promising.

A qualitative study exploring what it takes to be physically active with a stoma after surgery for rectal cancer.

PURPOSE: Many adults must cope with the adverse effects of cancer and adjuvant therapies, which may limit their engagement in health-enhancing behaviors such as physical activity (PA). Furthermore, the placement of a stoma during surgery for rectal cancer may cause additional challenges to being physically active. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of rectal cancer survivors who were living with a stoma and the impact on their engagement in PA. METHODS: Interpretive phenomenological analysis was used as the approach for this qualitative study. Fifteen rectal cancer survivors took part in a semi-structured interview post-chemotherapy, and thematic analysis was used to identify themes within their accounts. RESULTS: Three themes captured participants' personal lived experience: (1) reasons for engaging in PA, (2) deterrents to engaging in PA, and (3) practical implications. CONCLUSIONS: Participants' accounts offered insight into both their cancer and stoma-related experiences, highlighting both reasons for and deterrents to engaging in PA. Further, findings helped to identify tangible strategies that those learning to be physically active with a stoma may find useful.

Ongoing ostomy self-care challenges of long-term rectal cancer survivors.

PURPOSE: Surgical treatment for rectal cancer (RC) can result in an intestinal ostomy that requires lifelong adaptation and investment of physical, cognitive, and financial resources. However, little is known about the extent of ongoing challenges related to ostomy self-care among long-term RC survivors. We analyzed the prevalence of self-reported ostomy self-care challenges and the physical and environmental factors that can support or undermine ostomy self-care. METHODS: We mailed surveys to long-term (≥ 5 years post-diagnosis) RC survivors, including 177 adults with ostomies who were members of integrated health systems in northern California, Oregon, and Washington State. Potential participants were identified through tumor registries. Data were also extracted from electronic health records. RESULTS: The response rate was 65%. The majority of respondents were male (67%), and the mean age was 75 years. Sixty-three percent of respondents reported at least one ostomy self-care challenge. The most common challenges were leakage or skin problems around the ostomy and needing to change the pouching system too frequently. Twenty-two percent reported difficulty caring for their ostomy. Younger age and higher BMI were consistently related to ostomy self-care challenges. CONCLUSIONS: The majority of RC survivors reported ostomy-related self-care challenges, and 31% experienced problems across multiple domains of ostomy self-care. In addition, most survivors reported significant physical challenges that could lead to ostomy-related disability. Although the participants surveyed had access to ostomy care nurses, the care gaps we found suggest that additional work is needed to understand barriers to ostomy care, reduce unmet needs, and improve well-being among this group.

Predictors of adherence to aerobic exercise in rectal cancer patients during and after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy.

This pilot study explored predictors of adherence to exercise during and after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NACRT) in rectal cancer patients. Eighteen rectal cancer patients were prescribed three supervised aerobic exercise sessions/week during NACRT followed by ≥150 min/week of unsupervised aerobic exercise after NACRT. Although not statistically significant, adherence to supervised exercise during NACRT was meaningfully better for patients who were women (d = .82; P = .12), younger (d = -.62; P = .30), married (d = .62; P = .42), with better mental health (r = .32; P = .21), fewer diarrhea symptoms (r = .48; P = .052), and higher anticipated enjoyment (r = .31; P = .23), support (r = .32; P = .22), and motivation (r = .31; P = .23). After NACRT, adherence was significantly better for patients who reported worse mental health (r = -.56; P = .046) and meaningfully better for patients who were women (d = .54; P = .38), better educated (d = .77; P = .22), had no comorbidities (d = -.63; P = .17), and exercised at baseline (d = 1.05; P = .12). Demographics, tumor side effects, and motivational variables may predict adherence to exercise during and after NACRT.

Fatores associados a não reconstrução do trânsito intestinal em pacientes com câncer retal submetidos à ressecção anterior do reto e ileostomia de proteção / Factors preventing restoration of bowel continuity in patients with rectal cancer submitted to anterior rectal resection and protective ileostomy

RESUMO Objetivo: avaliar os fatores associados ao não fechamento de ileostomia protetora após ressecção anterior do reto com excisão total do mesorreto por câncer retal, a morbidade associada ao fechamento destas ileostomias e a taxa de estomia permanente em pacientes com adenocarcinoma retal. Métodos: estudo retrospectivo de 174 pacientes consecutivos com diagnóstico de tumores retais, dos quais 92 foram submetidos à ressecção anterior do reto com intenção curativa, anastomose coloanal ou colorretal e ileostomia de proteção. Foi realizada análise multivariada visando a determinar os fatores associados à permanência definitiva da estomia, assim como o estudo da morbidade nos que se submeteram à reconstrução do trânsito. Resultados: no período de seguimento de 84 meses, 54 dos 92 pacientes avaliados (58,7%) tiveram a ileostomia fechada e 38 (41,3%) permaneceram com a estomia. Entre os 62 pacientes que tiveram a ileostomia fechada, 11 (17,7%) apresentaram algum tipo de complicação pós-operatória: três com deiscência de anastomose ileal, cinco com obstrução intestinal, dois com infecção de ferida operatória e um com pneumonia. Oito destes pacientes necessitaram de um novo estoma. Conclusão: de acordo com a análise multivariada, os fatores associados à permanência da estomia foram fístula de anastomose, presença de metástases e fechamento da ileostomia durante quimioterapia.

ABSTRACT Objective: to evaluate the factors associated with non-closure of protective ileostomy after anterior resection of the rectum with total mesorectum excision for rectal cancer, the morbidity associated with the closure of ileostomies and the rate of permanent ileostomy in patients with rectal adenocarcinoma. Methods: we conducted a retrospective study with 174 consecutive patients diagnosed with rectal tumors, of whom 92 underwent anterior resection of the rectum with coloanal or colorectal anastomosis and protective ileostomy, with curative intent. We carried out a multivariate analysis to determine the factors associated with definite permanence of the stoma, as well as studied the morbidity of patients who underwent bowel continuity restoration. Results: In the 84-month follow-up period, 54 of the 92 patients evaluated (58.7%) had the ileostomy closed and 38 (41.3%) remained with the stoma. Among the 62 patients who had the ileostomy closed, 11 (17.7%) presented some type of postoperative complication: three had ileal anastomosis dehiscence, five had intestinal obstruction, two had surgical wound infection, and one, pneumonia. Eight of these patients required a new stoma. Conclusion: according to the multivariate analysis, the factors associated with stoma permanence were anastomotic fistula, presence of metastases and closure of the ileostomy during chemotherapy.

Functional outcome and quality of life following treatment for rectal cancer / Resultados funcionais e qualidade de vida após tratamento do câncer retal

Introduction: Over the last decades, treatment for rectal cancer has substantially improved with development of new surgical options and treatment modalities. With the improvement of survival, functional outcome and quality of life are getting more attention. Study objective: To provide an overview of current modalities in rectal cancer treatment, with particular emphasis on functional outcomes and quality of life. Results: Functional outcomes after rectal cancer treatment are influenced by patient and tumor characteristics, surgical technique, the use of preoperative radiotherapy and the method and level of anastomosis. Sphincter preserving surgery for low rectal cancer often results in poor functional outcomes that impair quality of life, referred to as low anterior resection syndrome. Abdominoperineal resection imposes the need for a permanent stoma but avoids the risk of this syndrome. Contrary to general belief, long-term quality of life in patients with a permanent stoma is similar to those after sphincter preserving surgery for low rectal cancer. Conclusion: All patients should be informed about the risks of treatment modalities. Decision on rectal cancer treatment should be individualized since not all patients may benefit from a sphincter preserving surgery "at any price". Non-resection treatment should be the future focus to avoid the need of a permanent stoma and bowel dysfunction.

Introdução: Ao longo das últimas décadas, o tratamento do câncer retal melhorou substancialmente com o desenvolvimento de novas opções terapêuticas. Com a melhoria da sobrevida, os resultados funcionais e a qualidade de vida são cada vez mais tidos em consideração. Objetivos do estudo: Rever as modalidades atuais de tratamento do câncer retal, com enfase nos resultados funcionais e qualidade de vida. Resultados: Os resultados funcionais após tratamento para o câncer retal é influenciado pelas características do doente, do tumor, da técnica cirúrgica, do uso de radioterapia pré-cirúrgica e do método e nível da anastomose. A cirurgia poupadora de esfíncter do câncer retal baixo resulta frequentemente em maus resultados funcionais que prejudicam a qualidade de vida, denominados síndrome da ressecção anterior baixa. A amputação abdominoperitoneal impõe a necessidade de uma colostomia definitiva mas evita os riscos de resultados funcionais deficitários. Contrariamente à crença geral, a qualidade de vida a longo-prazo em doentes com colostomia definitiva é semelhante à qualidade de vida após cirurgia poupadora de esfíncter do câncer retal baixo. Conclusão: Todos os doentes devem ser informados sobre o risco das opções terapêuticas. A decisão do tratamento do câncer retal deve ser individualizada uma vez que nem todos os doentes beneficiarão de uma cirurgia poupadora de esfíncter "a qualquer preço". A possibilidade de tratamento sem ressecção devem ser o foco futuro para evitar a necessidade de uma colostomia definitiva e disfunção gastrointestinal.

Comportamento sexual das mulheres em tratamento radioterápico / Sexual behavior of women in radiotherapytreatment

Women with cancer undergoing radiotherapy, radiotherapy and / or brachytherapy may change in sexual behavior, with influence on psychosocial, sexual and functional aspects as well as quality of life. This study aims to analyze the scientific evidence related to sexual behavior and quality of life of women who underwent radiotherapy. It is literature type integrative review. Data collection was conducted in May 2014 and was carried out through the Virtual Health Library, from the bottom of LILACS and MEDLINE, by combining the descriptors: "sexual behavior and radiotherapy" and "sexual behavior and brachytherapy". They selected 23 studies for the sample with no time limit. With the intention of promoting the contributions the production of knowledge about sexual behavior / symptoms after cancer treatment in women with brachytherapy and radiation, emerging two main themes: psychosocial, sexual and functional changes; quality of life. Identifies what is needed directed multidisciplinary action women with cancer in relation to sexuality, there are weaknesses in the care geared to these. Such assistance needs to be planned for the woman and her partner, so that living with cancer and treatment is quality.

As mulheres com câncer submetidas à radioterapia, teleterapia e/ou braquiterapia podem ter alteração nocomportamento sexual, com influência nos aspectos psicossociais, sexuais e funcionais, bem como na qualidade de vida. Este estudo tem como objetivo analisar as evidências científicas relacionadas ao comportamento sexual e qualidade de vida de mulheres que realizaram tratamento com radioterapia. Trata-se de pesquisa bibliográfica do tipo revisão integrativa. A coleta dos dados foi realizada no mês de maio de 2014, e ocorreu por meio da Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde, a partir das bases de dados LILACS e MEDLINE, através da combinação dos descritores: "sexual behaviorandradiotherapy" e "sexual behaviorandbrachytherapy". Foram selecionados 23 estudos para compor a amostra sem tempo limite. Com a intenção de promover os contributos da produção do conhecimento sobre o comportamento sexual/sintomas após tratamento de câncer em mulheres com braquiterapia e radioterapia, emergindo dois eixos temáticos: alterações psicossociais, sexuais e funcionais; qualidade de vida. Identifica-se que é necessária ação multidisciplinar direcionada as mulheres com câncer em relação à sexualidade, há fragilidade no cuidado voltado a essas. Tal assistência necessita ser planejada para a mulher e seu parceiro, de forma que a convivência com o câncer e tratamento seja de qualidade.

The sexual health of female rectal and anal cancer survivors: results of a pilot randomized psycho-educational intervention trial.

BACKGROUND: Sexual dysfunction is a frequently reported consequence of rectal/anal cancer treatment for female patients. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to conduct a small randomized controlled trial to assess the efficacy of a telephone-based, four-session Cancer Survivorship Intervention-Sexual Health (CSI-SH). METHODS: Participants (N = 70) were stratified by chemotherapy, stoma, and menopause statuses before randomization to CSI-SH or assessment only (AO). Participants were assessed at baseline, 4 months (follow-up 1), and 8 months (follow-up 2). RESULTS: The intervention had medium effect sizes from baseline to follow-up 1, which decreased by follow-up 2. Effect sizes were larger among the 41 sexually active women. Unadjusted means at the follow-ups were not significantly different between the treatment arms. Adjusting for baseline scores, demographics, and medical variables, the intervention arm had significantly better emotional functioning at follow-ups 1 and 2 and less cancer-specific stress at follow-up 1 compared to the AO arm. CONCLUSION: The data supported the hypothesized effects on improved sexual and psychological functioning and quality of life in CSI-SH female rectal/anal cancer survivors compared to the AO condition. This pilot study (N = 70) of CSI-SH supported the impact of this intervention on sexual and psychological functioning and quality of life on rectal and anal cancer survivors compared with an AO condition. However, intervention effects were stronger at follow-up 1 as compared to follow-up 2 and were stronger for sexually active women. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS: Women may benefit from a brief, four-session, sexual health intervention after treatment from rectal and anal cancer.

Distress after a psychosocial cancer rehabilitation course. Main effects and effect modification in a randomised trial at 12 months of follow-up.

BACKGROUND: In 2002, the Danish Cancer Society opened a rehabilitation centre in which cancer patients were offered a free, six-day, multidimensional residential course. Our previous studies of the effects of this course at one and six months of follow-up showed no positive effect on distress. We investigated long-term effects at 12 months of follow-up and whether subgroups with fewer psychosocial resources received more benefit from the intervention than patients with better resources. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In two Danish counties, 507 patients with breast, prostate, colon or rectum cancer diagnosed within the past two years who had completed primary treatment were randomised to a six-day, multidimensional residential rehabilitation course or to standard care. Of these, 208 patients received the allocated intervention and 244 received the allocated control condition and were included in the analyses. Patients in both groups completed questionnaires at baseline and at one, six and 12 months of follow-up, including the 'Profile of Mood States short form', the 'General Self-efficacy' scale and a question on emotional support. At 12 months of follow-up, 179 participants in the intervention group and 195 in the control group provided data. RESULTS: No effect of the intervention was found on distress at 12 months of follow-up, even in subgroups with fewer psychosocial resources at baseline, i.e. greater baseline distress, poorer self-efficacy and less emotional support. CONCLUSION: Multidimensional rehabilitation programmes may not be effective in the treatment of distress. During the past few decades, studies of psychotherapy or psycho-education in cancer patients have shown small to moderate effects. More focused rehabilitation programmes may be more effective.

Impact of a diverting stoma in an enhanced recovery programme for rectal cancer.

PURPOSE: The association of a loop ileostomy decreases the severity of complications after rectal surgery but can increase the postoperative stay. The aim of this study is to investigate if a diverting ileostomy influences the postoperative outcomes in a series of patients included in a multimodal rehabilitation program (MMRP). METHODS: We analyzed a series of 104 patients that underwent elective surgery with primary anastomosis for rectal adenocarcinoma using a MMRP: 66 men and 38 women, with a median age of 64 (IQR: 55-75) years. Group A included patients with an associated loop ileostomy, and Group B, those without a protective stoma. RESULTS: Group A = 58, group B = 46 patients without differences in age, ASA, BMI and other risk factors, nor in the surgical approach (laparoscopic in 34%), although there were more neoadjuvant treatments in group A: 77.5 vs. 36.9%; P=.001. In group A, the most common operation was total mesorectal excision (96%) and in the B, a subtotal mesorectal excision (90%). There were no differences in postoperative complications (Group A 34.4 vs. group B28.2%; P=.322), anastomotic leaks (8.3 vs. 10.8%; P=.475), or postoperative ileus (20.7 vs. 10.9%; P=.140), neither in postoperative stay (7.9 vs. 6.9 days; P= .058, readmissions (7 vs. 13.6%; P= .22), or postoperative stay, including readmissions (8.4 vs. 9.1 days; P= .49). CONCLUSIONS: The association of a loop ileostomy does not extend the length of stay nor increases the rate of complications in patients that underwent a rectal resection with anastomosis included in a MMRP.

Cancer rehabilitation services: an Italian population-based cohort study.

AIMS AND BACKGROUND: In Italy more than 55% of cancer patients live for more than 5 years after diagnosis, sometimes with several cancer-related sequelae. For this reason rehabilitation must offer not only physical interventions but also psychological, clinical, social and nutritional support. The CAREMORE pilot study was designed to assess whether cancer registries could serve to collect information on rehabilitation services, to describe and quantify the services provided by the National Health Service, and to examine the allocation of rehabilitation services to cancer patients. METHODS AND STUDY DESIGN: This was a pilot population-based cohort study. A sample of 1200 patients was identified from the databases of the Varese, Genoa, Reggio Emilia, Sassari and Ragusa cancer registries, all diagnosed in 2002 and followed for 5 years. For 4 cancer sites a list of rehabilitation items to be collected was drafted by a joint community of researchers and voluntary associations, with variables regarding rehabilitation data and follow-up. Data were analyzed by groups of patients, vital status, sex, and age. RESULTS: This pilot study suggested it is useful to collect information on several rehabilitation services: disability benefits, home care, aids and other support; it was not possible to collect reliable information on nutritional and psychological rehabilitation. In all, 36% of the sample applied for disability benefits, but with important differences between cancer sites. Eleven percent of the sample obtained home care, with no substantial differences between cancer sites, and 16% received at least one aid, with percentages varying from 27% for rectal cancer to 8% for lymphoma patients. CONCLUSIONS: The pilot study indicated that cancer registries could collect information on rehabilitation services. In the future it would be interesting to expand the roles of these registries to factors that influence quality of life, taking into account the possibility of collecting more information by actually interviewing patients.

Fast-track surgery combined with laparoscopy could improve postoperative recovery of low-risk rectal cancer patients: a randomized controlled clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: In this study we aimed to assess the feasibility and safety of fast-track surgery (FTS) combined with laparoscopy for treating patients with rectal cancer and compare the results with those of the conventional perioperative intervention group. METHODS: A total of 120 patients with rectal cancer were prospectively randomly assigned to the FTS combined with laparoscopy group and the conventional perioperative intervention plus laparoscopy group from November 2011 to November 2012. All patients received radical anterior resection with total mesorectal excision. Their baseline characteristics and the perioperative outcomes were recorded for analyses. RESULTS: Compared with the conventional perioperative intervention group, the fast-track protocol combined with laparoscopy could shorten the time to the first flatus (53.44 ± 23.64 h vs 67.85 ± 20.12 h, P = 0.001) and first defecation (65.23 ± 22.24 h vs 86.98 ± 24.85 h, P = 0.000) after operation, accelerate the decrease of white blood cell count (P < 0.05), inhibit body temperature augmentation (P < 0.05) and reduce postoperative complication rate (16.9% vs 3.5%, P = 0.030). In addition, the length of postoperative stay was also shortened (5.05 ± 1.38 days vs 6.98 ± 2.26 days, P = 0.000). The medical cost of hospitalization was also reduced in the FTS group. CONCLUSION: FTS in combination with laparoscopy may accelerate the clinical recovery of patients with rectal cancer after surgery.

Early rehabilitation versus conventional care after laparoscopic rectal surgery: a prospective, randomized, controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Although early rehabilitation programs have been reported to be effective after laparoscopic colectomy, there is no report of the efficacy of rehabilitation programs after rectal cancer surgery. This study was designed to evaluate the efficacy of an early rehabilitation program after laparoscopic low anterior resection for mid or low rectal cancer in a randomized, controlled trial. METHODS: Ninety-eight patients who had undergone a laparoscopic low anterior resection with defunctioning ileostomy were randomized on a 1:1 basis to an early rehabilitation program (n = 52) or conventional care (n = 46). The primary endpoint was recovery rate at 4 days postoperatively. The secondary endpoints were recovery time, postoperative hospital stay, complications, readmission rates, pain on a visual analogue scale, and quality of life (QOL) according to Short Form 36. RESULTS: The recovery rates were not different in both groups (rehabilitation, 25 % vs. conventional, 13 %, p = 0.135). Recovery time and postoperative hospital stay was similar between the groups (rehabilitation, 137 h [107-188] vs. conventional, 146.5 h [115-183], p = 0.47; 7.5 days [7-11] vs. 8.0 days [7-10], p = 0.882). The complication rates did not differ between the two groups, but more complications were noted in the rehabilitation program group (42.3 vs. 24.0 %, p = 0.054), which was related to postoperative ileus (28.8 vs. 13.0 %, p = 0.057) and acute voiding difficulty (19.6 vs. 4.7 %, p = 0.032). There was no readmission within 1 month of surgery. Pain and QOL were similar in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: This randomized trial did not show that an early rehabilitation program is beneficial after laparoscopic low anterior resection. Our results confirm that postoperative ileus and acute voiding difficulty are major obstacles to fast-track surgery for mid or low rectal cancer. This study was registered (registration number NCT00606944).

Prospective longitudinal evaluation of quality of life in patients with permanent colostomy after curative resection for rectal cancer: a preliminary study.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to evaluate health-related quality of life in patients with a colostomy immediately before and during the first year after surgery. SUBJECTS AND SETTING: Patients (aged ≥20 years) who were diagnosed with rectal cancer and scheduled to undergo curative surgery with a permanent colostomy were recruited for this study. Data were collected at 2 university hospitals in Tokyo. METHODS: Participants were asked to complete a self-administered questionnaire regarding health-related quality of life before surgery and a mailed or hand delivered questionnaire to evaluate quality of life at 2, 6, and 12 months after surgery using the Short Form-36 version 2. For patients who responded at all 4 time points, the scores at each time point were compared using paired t tests to examine longitudinal changes in quality of life after surgery. RESULTS: Mean quality-of-life scores in most domains before surgery and during the first year after surgery were lower than the normal control in the norm-based scoring method. Scores at 2 months after surgery were lower than those before surgery. At 12 months after surgery, however, quality-of-life scores improved almost to the level observed before surgery, with the exception of the score in the social functioning domain. Statistical differences in scores between the time points of the survey were observed in the role-physical, bodily pain, and mental health domains. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that patients with permanent colostomy after curative resection for rectal cancer need additional medical support and care before surgery and during the first year after surgery.

Impact of an enhanced recovery programme in colorectal surgery.

Surgery is undergoing revolutionary change as a result of newer approaches to pain control, the introduction of techniques that reduce the post-operative stress response, and the use of minimally invasive operations, such as laparoscopic surgery. As demand for hospital beds continues to escalate, it is paramount that patients recover from surgery quickly and safely; the use of evidence-based interventions to hasten recovery within an enhanced recovery programme (ERP) can play a vital role in achieving this, as well as reducing costs by shortening hospital stay. This article outlines the principles and key elements of an ERP, and discusses how it can help to achieve an improved and safe recovery and shorter hospital stay for patients, thereby reducing the cost to the NHS of inpatient treatment and recovery. The literature surrounding the development of 'enhanced recovery' (also called 'fast-track') surgery is reviewed to determine whether it is appropriate for patients undergoing elective colorectal surgery.

[Perioperative fast track programs enhance the postoperative recovery after rectal carcinoma resection].

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of the fast track programs (FT) on the postoperative recovery of patients with rectum carcinoma after rectal cancer resection. METHODS: Eighty-three patients, undergone elective rectal carcinoma resection in our hospital, were randomly divided into two groups. FT group (44 cases) received the perioperative FT programs care, including bowel preparation reduction, preoperative normal intake, early removal of the nasogastric tube and bladder catheter, early postoperative feeding, early mobilization, and no routine drainage. Control group (39 cases) received the conventional program care. The postoperative hospital stay, surgical complications and readmission rate within 30 days postoperatively were compared between the two groups. RESULTS: The data of two groups such as gender, surgical procedures, complications, TNM stage of tumor, age, operation time and intra-operative blood loss were similar. The mean postoperative hospital stay in FT group was significantly shorter than that in control group [(4.7+/-2.6) d vs (8.9+/-2.8) d] (P<0.001). The surgical complications within 30 days postoperatively in FT group were significantly less than those in control group (P<0.05). The difference of readmission rate was not significant between the two groups (P=0.326). CONCLUSION: The colorectal surgical fast track programs applied to the perioperative period care of rectal carcinoma resection can decrease the hospital stay and surgical complications with no obvious change in readmission rate, so the postoperative recovery of patients with rectal carcinoma resection can be improved.