Diseases of the colon and rectum
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The impact of previous abdominal surgeries on the need for conversion to open surgery and on short-term outcomes during/after laparoscopic colectomy was retrospectively investigated. ⋯ The incidence of successfully completed laparoscopic colectomy after previous abdominal surgery remains high, and the short-term outcomes are acceptable.
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Long-term consequences of anastomotic leak after restorative proctectomy for rectal cancer, in terms of bowel function and quality of life, have been poorly delineated. ⋯ Anastomotic leak after restorative resection for rectal cancer leads to early adverse consequences on bowel function and quality of life even when anastomotic continuity can be maintained. These findings may help counsel patients and clinicians regarding anticipated outcomes over the long term.
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Length of stay following elective colorectal surgery is being reported as a quality measure in surgical outcome registries, such as the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program. Regional referral centers with large geographic catchment areas attract patients from significant distances. ⋯ In a model that controlled for variables, increased travel distance from a patient's residence to the surgical hospital was associated with an increase in length of stay. If length of stay is a reportable quality measure in patients undergoing colorectal surgery, significant travel distance should be accounted for in the risk adjustment model calculations.
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Fecal incontinence is a common debilitating condition. ⋯ The preliminary results suggest sacral transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation is a promising noninvasive alternative to existing modalities in the treatment of idiopathic fecal incontinence.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
A prospective randomized controlled trial of sugared chewing gum on gastrointestinal recovery after major colorectal surgery in patients managed with early enteral feeding.
A number of small prospective studies with conflicting results have evaluated the effect of sugar-free chewing gum on postoperative GI recovery in patients initially maintained nil per os after major colorectal surgery. ⋯ There does not appear to be any benefit to sugared chewing gum in comparison with no gum in patients undergoing major colorectal surgery managed with early feeding in the postoperative period. There may be increased incidence of bloating, indigestion, and eructation, possibly related to swallowed air during gum chewing.