Functional outcome and quality of life after restorative proctocolectomy and ileal pouch-anal anastomosis.

A b s t r a c t: Restorative proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis is the surgical treatment of choice for patients with medically refractory ulcerative colitis, ulcerative colitis with dysplasia or cancer, or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). The aim of this study is to report our 6-year experience of restorative proctocolectomy and IPAA at a tertiary referral centre. Chart review was performed for 7 patients undergoing IPAA from 2006 to 2010. Preoperative histopathological diagnoses were ulcerative colitis (n = 5), FAP (n = 1) and other (n = 1). We collected data regarding patient demographics, type and duration of the disease, previous operations and indications for surgery. We analysed the operative protocols and postoperative pathological diagnoses. Early (within 30 days after surgery) and late complications were noted. Follow-up was conducted upon annual function and a quality of life questionnaire, physical examination and endoscopic evaluation of the pouch. Postoperative histopathological diagnoses were: ulcerative colitis (n = 3), indeterminate colitis (n = 2), FAP (n = 1) and colonic necrosis and gangrene (n = 1). The average age of the operated patients was 48, with a female predomination of 71%. The mean duration of the follow-up was 4 years. We report 2 cases of steroid use prior to operation as well as 2 cases of extraintestinal manifestations. We report no septic complications and 3 cases of pouchitis. Functional results and quality of life were good to excellent in all 7 cases of IPAA. Restorative proctocolectomy with IPAA is a safe procedure with a low morbidity rate. Functional results are generally good and patient satisfaction is high.