ASSESSMENT OF QUALITY OF LIFE IN PATIENTS WITH ULCERATIVE COLITIS UNDERGOING TOTAL PROCTOCOLECTOMY WITH ILEAL RESERVOIR: A CROSS-SECTIONAL COHORT STUDY IN A BRAZILIAN REFERRAL CENTER

Introduction and Objectives Restorative proctocolectomy with ileoanal anastomosis (IPAA) is the procedure of choice when colectomy is necessary for ulcerative colitis (UC) refractory to medical treatments. However, IPAA may be associated with significant morbidity and impact on the patient's quality of life (QoL). This study aimed to report QoL, long-term satisfaction with surgery, and post-IPAA functional outcomes in a referral center for Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) in Brazil.

Methods A standardized questionnaire was administered to patients with UC who underwent IPAA surgery from March to August 2023, assessing QoL and bowel function. Parameters included daily bowel movements, fecal incontinence, diaper dependency, use of antidiarrheal medications, fecal urgency, social limitations, fatigue, impact on sexual life, and work capacity.

Results Twenty-eight patients completed the questionnaires (female, n=19, 67.9%, average age 44.8±10.2 years). Patients reported an average of 6.0±1.8 bowel movements per day, with 27 (96.4%) experiencing diarrhea. Diapers were not required in most cases (22, 78.6%), with nocturnal bowel movements reported by most (24, 85.7%). Fecal urgency was common (17, 60.7%), with 21 patients (75%) requiring antidiarrheal medication. After surgery, patients reported fatigue (27, 96.4%), impact on sexual life (18, 64.3%), social and work challenges (22, 78.6%), and embarrassment about their health condition (21, 75%). Overall, 22 patients (78.6%) were satisfied with the procedure.

Conclusion Despite high long-term satisfaction with IPAA, patients experienced negative effects on bowel habits and QoL. These findings may inform strategies to improve QoL for future IPAA patients.

No conflict of interest has been declared by the author(s).

Publication History

Article published online:
25 April 2025