Diseases of the colon and rectum
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Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study
Evaluation of long-term anorectal function after low anterior resection: a 5-year follow-up of a randomized multicenter trial.
Anorectal function after rectal surgery with low anastomosis is often impaired. Outcome of long-term anorectal function is poorly understood but may improve over time. ⋯ Anorectal function was impaired for many patients, but the temporary presence of a defunctioning stoma after rectal resection did not affect long-term outcome. Anorectal function did not change between 1-year and 5-year follow-up.