Abstract
In the last 30 years, oncologic outcomes of rectal cancer treatment have been significantly improved due to multimodal management and the introduction of the concept of total mesorectum excision. Although the improvements in oncological treatment and surgical techniques are undeniable, multimodal treatment results in the onset of disorders of the intestinal, sexual and urinary function in a high proportion of these patients. Up to 90% of patients undergoing a low anterior resection refer bowel disorders such as fecal incontinence, urgency, increased frequency and fragmentation of defecation. These elements are included in an entity known as the low anterior resection syndrome and specific assessment tools have been designed recently, evidencing the high incidence and prevalence of this syndrome. In the present review, we update the pathophysiology, risk factors, clinical presentation, evaluation and the alternatives of prevention and treatment of low anterior resection syndrome.
