Improving Functional Outcomes and Quality of Life in Patients With Rectal Cancer After Surgery With Intensified Follow-up & Surveillance

Launched by UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL, BASEL, SWITZERLAND · Apr 17, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is focused on improving the lives of patients who have undergone surgery for rectal cancer and are experiencing Low Anterior Resection Syndrome (LARS) symptoms. LARS can cause issues like bowel problems and affect a person's overall quality of life after surgery. The main goal of the study is to see if a more intensive follow-up program, which includes regular check-ups, medical treatments, and special exercises for pelvic floor muscles, can help improve these symptoms and enhance quality of life. Researchers will compare results from patients who receive this enhanced follow-up care to those who do not, to determine if the program is effective.

To be eligible for this trial, participants need to be at least 18 years old and have had a specific type of rectal cancer surgery. They should be able to understand and sign consent forms. However, those with certain mental health conditions or who cannot have their stoma reversed due to complications will not be included. The trial is not yet recruiting participants, but it aims to provide valuable insights for better care and support for patients dealing with LARS after their surgery.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • patients older than 18 years
• • patients with rectal cancer in the middle and lower third of the rectum in stages I to IV who underwent LAR with TME and protective ileostomy
• • able to give informed consent as documented by signature
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • dementia or other psychiatric disorder that would prevent the patients from answering the questionnaires and experiencing sustainable training effects
• • impossibility of stoma reversal due to persistent anastomotic leak and/or local recurrence