Low anterior resection (LAR) for rectal cancer

A low anterior resection (LAR) is a common surgery for colorectal cancer.

What is a low anterior resection (LAR)?

In this procedure, the surgeon removes the diseased portion of the rectum and the sigmoid colon. Some lymph nodes and surrounding tissue are also removed.

Will I need a colostomy bag?

Some LAR surgeries do not require a stoma if the surgeon is able to connect the two ends of the colon together. The part of the colon that is joined is called an anastomosis.

However, because this surgery takes place so deep in the pelvis, patients may be at a higher risk of anastomotic leaks and fecal incontinence.

To reduce the risk, your surgeon may create a temporary ostomy to divert fecal matter away from the newly created anastomosis.

Colostomies and ileostomies

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Recovery

After left hemicolectomy surgery:

  • You will have some pain that can be controlled with medication.
  • For a few days, you may be on a liquid diet to let your colon heal.
  • Bowel function usually returns within three days after surgery.
  • Your doctor will determine when you can return to work, driving, and other activities.
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Risks and possible complications

Risks of any surgery depend on several factors, including your overall health and the extent of the surgery.

Rectal cancer patients are also at increased risk of developing low anterior resection syndrome (LARS), a collection of symptoms ranging from fecal incontinence with frequency and urgency to constipation and incomplete emptying.

Other problems are rare but can include:

  • infection
  • bleeding
  • blood clots in the legs (DVT)
  • leak at the anastomosis
  • scar tissue in the abdominal cavity (adhesions)
  • sexual dysfunction

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