Prophylactic transanal irrigation for low anterior resection syndrome following rectal resection

Defecation disorders and incontinence are common following low anterior resection of the rectum. Transanal irrigation (TAI) has been reported to be a cheap and effective treatment for improving the quality of life (QoL) of patients suffering from low anterior resection syndrome (LARS). Based on these observations, as well as on the fact that the majority of patients undergoing anterior resection are affected significantly after closure of their protective ostomies, a prophylactic application of TAI was considered in order to prevent a deterioration of QoL. To this end, a multicenter randomized controlled trial is planned that will evaluate the effect of TAI on (a) the number of defecation episodes, (b) LARS score, and (c) results of the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) in comparison with a control group who will receive the conventional supportive management following anterior resection.