Cross-sectional evaluation of long-term bowel issues after radical cystectomy.

318Background: We had previously shown that a significant number of patients after radical cystectomy (RC) suffer from changes in bowel habits and defecation. Reports addressing long-term bowel disorders following RC are rare. This cross sectional study evaluates long-term bowel issues in a large cohort with the help of an issue-tailored questionnaire. Methods: For this purpose a questionnaire assessing changes in bowel function and its impact on daily life was developed and distributed among members of the German bladder cancer self-help group. A total of 431 patients after RC were evaluated. Symptoms such as diarrhea, constipation, urge to defecate, sensation of incomplete defecation, flatulence, and impact on quality of life (QoL) were assessed. Results: A total of 324 patients were followed ≥1 year, 43% patients of those reported current bowel disorders, 40% life restriction and 60% dissatisfaction. Most frequent bowel symptoms were flatulence (49%), followed by diarrhea (30%) and the sensation of inc...