Pelvic floor symptoms, physical, and psychological outcomes of patients following surgery for colorectal cancer. (3rd June 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lin, Kuan-Yin; Denehy, Linda; Frawley, Helena C.; Wilson, Lisa; Granger, Catherine L.
• Is Part Of: Physiotherapy theory and practice. Volume 34:Number 6(2018)
• Page Start: 442
• Page End: 452
• Publication Date: 2018-06-03
• Subjects: Colorectal neoplasms -- physical activity -- pelvic floor -- surgery -- quality of life; Physical therapy -- Periodicals; 615.82
• DOI: 10.1080/09593985.2017.1422165
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0959-3985

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Background: Little has been published regarding general and pelvic floor-related health status in patients who have undergone surgery for colorectal cancer (CRC). Objective: The objective of the study was to assess changes in pelvic floor symptoms, physical activity levels, psychological status, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with CRC from pre- to 6 months postoperatively. Methods: Pelvic floor symptoms, physical activity levels, anxiety and depression, and HRQoL of 30 participants who were undergoing surgery for stages I–III CRC were evaluated pre- and 6 months postoperatively. Results: Six months postoperatively, there were no significant changes in severity of pelvic floor symptoms, or other secondary outcomes (physical activity levels, depression, global HRQoL) compared to preoperative levels ( p > 0.05). However, fecal incontinence ( p = 0.03) and hair loss ( p = 0.003) measured with the HRQoL instrument were significantly worse. Participants were engaged in low levels of physical activity before (42.3%) and after surgery (47.4%). Conclusion: The findings of a high percentage of participants with persistent low physical activity levels and worse bowel symptoms after CRC surgery compared to preoperative levels suggest the need for health-care professionals to provide information about the benefits of physical activity and bowel management at postoperative follow-ups. Further investigation in larger studies is warranted.