In:
Digestive Surgery, S. Karger AG, Vol. 24, No. 1 ( 2007), p. 46-53
Abstract:
〈 i 〉 Aim: 〈 /i 〉 This study was designed to compare preoperative and postoperative bowel functions in patients with rectocele repair. 〈 i 〉 Methods: 〈 /i 〉 Patients who underwent surgery for rectocele between October 1988 and October 2004 were enrolled. Prior to surgery, the patients were asked to complete a questionnaire regarding evacuation difficulty, itching, fecal incontinence, and the need for digitation. Surgery was performed either transanally (group I) or transvaginally (group II). At follow-up after 12 months, the same questionnaire was obtained in the outpatient clinic or by mail to evaluate preoperative and postoperative changes in bowel function. 〈 i 〉 Results: 〈 /i 〉 There were 71 patients in group I and 40 patients in group II. The median age was 56 years in group I and 67 years in group II. The evacuation difficulty was significantly improved in both group I (p 〈 0.001) and group II (p 〈 0.001). Incontinence to flatus was slightly increased in group I (p = 0.33) and group II (p = 0.6). Incontinence to solid stool was not statistically different in either group. The need for digitation was markedly improved in group I (p 〈 0.001) and group II (p = 0.0017). 〈 i 〉 Conclusion: 〈 /i 〉 Although surgery for rectocele potentially increases the risk of fecal incontinence, it may be indicated if presented with evacuation difficulty necessitating digitation.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
0253-4886
,
1421-9883
Language:
English
Publisher:
S. Karger AG
Publication Date:
2007
detail.hit.zdb_id:
1468560-7
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