Evaluation of functional outcomes after disc excision of deep endometriosis involving low and mid rectum using standardized questionnaires: a series of 80 patients

Aim The aim was to assess the functional outcome and quality of life in patients with low and mid rectal endometriosis who have undergone disc excision using a semicircular transanal staple device, a procedure we have named the Rouen technique. Methods This was a retrospective study of patients undergoing the Rouen technique between October 2009 and November 2018. Preoperative and postoperative demographic and operative data were recorded prospectively (mean ± SEM). Postoperative complications were recorded using the Clavien–Dindo classification. Rectal function and quality of life were assessed by the low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) and Bowel Endometriosis Syndrome (BENS) scores respectively at ≥6 months. Results The Rouen procedure was performed on 80 patients (29.7 ± 4.3). The mean diameter of resected specimens was 57 ± 10 mm, and the height of the rectal suture from the anal verge was 4.6 ± 1.2 cm. The Clavien–Dindo complications were Clavien–Dindo 1 (leg compression), Clavien–Dindo 2 (urinary tract infection, bladder self‐catheterization) and Clavien–Dindo 3b (bowel obstruction, rectovaginal fistula, pyelic dilation, colorectal stenosis after resection). A rectovaginal fistula (Clavien–Dindo 3b) developed in nine (11.3%) patients and their stoma could be reversed after 99–162 days. The majority of patients (n = 50, 62.5%) had normal postoperative rectal function with LARS score ≤20. However, minor (LARS ≥ 21–29) and major rectal dysfunction (LARS ≥ 30) was seen in 18 (22.5%) and 12 (15%) patients respectively. Quality of life as measured using the BENS score was normal (BENS score 0–8) in 51 (63.8%) patients, slightly reduced (BENS score 9–16) in 24 (30%) patients and in only five (6.3%) was this a major issue (BENS score > 17). The development of a rectovaginal fistula was independently related to risk of major rectal dysfunction (adjusted OR 6.3, 95% CI 1.3–30.6). Conclusions In our series of 80 patients with transmural low and mid rectal endometriosis disc excision using a semicircular staple device can result in good functional outcomes and quality of life and avoid the complexity and potential complications of a low anterior resection.