Background: The patients in this study formed part of a multicentre randomized trial comparing the straight and colonic pouch anastomoses after rectal excision for cancer. The trial reflected an advantage of the pouch group regarding frequency, urgency and incontinence. We hypothesized that such differences in bowel function would be reflected in a general quality of life score.
Methods: Forty-five patients were randomized. The Nottingham Health Profile was used to measure health-related quality of life before and 1 year after surgery.
Results: There was no difference in quality of life score when the two groups were compared. When calculating the relative change after surgery, there was an improvement in both groups regarding the total score of the Profile (P < 0.0001).
Conclusions: The Nottingham Health Profile was effective in showing an improvement in quality of life in both groups after surgery. The observed difference in clinical bowel function was not, however, reflected in an improved quality of life score as measured by the Profile.