MTP6.12 Assessing quality of life through Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) following extralevator abdominoperineal resection (ELAPE) and plastic surgery reconstruction

Aims Perineal reconstruction involving plastic surgeons following ELAPE aims to reduce wound related complications and improve patients’ quality of life (QoL). PROMs allow assessment from the patient’s perspective. This study therefore aims to assess factors contributing to a patient’s post-operative QoL. Method All patients to have undergone ELAPE with the involvement of plastic surgeons in the period 2009 – 2024 at one hospital were identified. Basic demographic and disease data was collected from a prospective database. A detailed telephone questionnaire followed incorporating symptoms with aspects of the validated QoL questionnaires; SF-16 and QLQ-CR29. Results 42 patients were identified and 30 patients were available for participation. The average age was 66, with a 3:2 male to female ratio. 24 patients had rectal adenocarcinoma and 6 anal squamous. 2 patients required further perineal procedures. Symptoms and QoL indicators - 27 patients rated their overall health as fair, good, very good or excellent. Regarding all outcome measures, 15 patients rarely or never experience any symptoms however, 8 patients experience daily symptoms. 13 patients experience intermittent perineal discomfort, 16 experience urinary symptoms and 14 experience sexual dysfunction. 17 patients noted a significant psychological impact following diagnosis and treatment, 5 patients feel they now lack in confidence. 28 patients are satisfied or pleased with the perineal aesthetic outcome. Discussion Few patients had wound related complications and many patients were pleased with the aesthetic outcomes. This study contributes to the increasing QoL data and emphasises the importance of plastic surgeons as part of the colorectal cancer MDT.