PURPOSE: This study was designed to evaluate the long-term functional and quality-of-life outcomes of patients after coloanal anastomosis for distal rectal cancer.
METHODS: A total of 192 patients underwent coloanal anastomosis between 1982 and 2001 at two tertiary referral institutions. Standardized and validated questionnaires to assess functional and quality-of-life outcomes were mailed to 151 patients, of which 121 patients responded (median follow-up, 65 months).
RESULTS: Patients receiving pelvic radiotherapy had more bowel function problems than patients who did not receive pelvic radiotherapy. No significant differences in relevant functional and quality-of-life outcomes were seen among patients who received preoperative or postoperative pelvic radiotherapy. Patients requiring permanent diversion as a result of complications of the surgery had decreased quality of life.
CONCLUSIONS: Coloanal anastomosis for distal rectal cancer has favorable long-term outcomes. Pelvic radiotherapy has an adverse effect on subsequent bowel function (whether given preoperatively or postoperatively) in patients who maintain intestinal continuity. Loss of intestinal continuity after a coloanal anastomosis is associated with diminished quality of life.