Low Anterior Resection Syndrome: Current Understanding and Management

TL;DR

This review discusses LARS, a common complication after rectal cancer surgery, and explores its causes, evaluation, and treatment options.

Contribution

The paper provides a comprehensive overview of LARS management strategies and emphasizes multidisciplinary care for improved patient outcomes.

Findings

LARS is a prevalent issue following sphincter-preserving rectal cancer surgery.

Both conservative and surgical approaches are used to manage LARS symptoms.

Multidisciplinary care and patient education are crucial for improving quality of life.

Abstract

Low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) is a common and often debilitating complication following sphincter-preserving surgery for rectal cancer. With evolving techniques in surgical oncology, sphincter preservation has become more prevalent; however, this has led to an increased incidence of postoperative bowel dysfunction. This narrative review explores the current understanding of LARS, including its definition, pathophysiology, clinical evaluation, treatment options, and preventive strategies. Emphasis is placed on both conservative and surgical management approaches, as well as the importance of patient education and multidisciplinary care in improving quality of life.