The improvement in prognosis of rectal cancer through modern therapy modalities rises questions regarding quality of life (QoL) and functional outcomes. Evidence for long-term QoL and functional outcomes of transanal total mesorectal excision (taTME) is not provided in current literature. This study will compare short-term and long-term QoL and functional outcomes after taTME compared to traditional abdominal TME (laparoscopic, robotic, and open approach)
Quality of life and functional outcomes of patients undergoing taTME or abTME for stage I-III rectal cancer will be analysed. A retrospective propensity score-adjusted analysis of prospectively conducted data will be performed. The primary endpoint QoL will be assessed by the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer core questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30). Secondary endpoints are the functional outcomes according to the EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire.
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
249
Transanal approach in surgical treatment of rectal cancer along the anatomical and embryological planes, called total mesorectal excision, as described in 1988 by Heald et al.
Patients who underwent laparoscopic, robotic, or open total mesorectal excision with anastomosis for primary rectal cancer UICC stage I to III
Cantonal Hospital of St.Gallen
Sankt Gallen, Canton of St. Gallen, Switzerland
Quality of life (QoL)
Assessed by the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer core questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30): * Overall QoL * QLQ-total
Time frame: 5 years after initial operation
Functional outcomes
Assessed by the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer core questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30): * physical functioning * role functioning * cognitive functioning * emotional functioning * social functioning * fatigue * pain * nausea and vomiting * appetite loss * dyspnea * insomnia * constipation * diarrhea * financial difficulties
Time frame: 5 years after initial operation
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