Purpose: Colectomy with ileorectal anastomosis (IRA) is the most common surgical procedure for slow transit constipation (STC). A hemicolectomy has been suggested as an alternative to IRA with good short-term results. However, long-term results are unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term results after hemicolectomy as a treatment for STC.
Methods: Fifty patients with STC were selected for right- or left-sided hemicolectomy after evaluation with colonic scintigraphy from 1993 to 2008. Living patients (n = 43) received a bowel function questionnaire and a questionnaire about patient-reported outcome.
Results: After a median follow-up of 19.8 years, 13 patients had undergone rescue surgery (n = 12) or used irrigation (n = 1) and were classified as failures. In all, 30 were evaluable for functional outcome and questionnaire data for 19 patients (due to 11 non-responding) could be analysed. Two reported deterioration after several years and were also classified as failures. Median stool frequency remained increased from 1 per week at baseline to 5 per week at long-term follow-up (p = 0.001). Preoperatively, all patients used laxatives, whereas 12 managed without laxatives at long-term follow-up (p = 0.002). There was some reduction in other constipation symptoms but not statically significant. In the patients' global assessment, 10 stated a very good result, seven a good result and two a poor result.
Conclusions: Hemicolectomy for STC increases stool frequency and reduces laxative use. Long-term success rate could range between 17/50 (34%) and 35/50 (70%) depending on outcome among non-responders.
Keywords: Colonic functional disorders; Long-term follow-up; Segmental resection; Slow transit constipation.