Effect of Laparoscopic Surgery on Quality of Life in Ulcerative Colitis

Aim: To evaluate quality of life after surgery for ulcerative colitis (UC) the gastroenterological and psychological conditions were examined. Materials and Methods: Between January 1, 2005 and March 1, 2016, surgery was performed for UC in a total of 75 patients. Our examinations were performed in 58 cases. Quality of life was examined with questionnaires. Functional Scoring System, Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI), and Short Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire (SIBDQ) were used for testing gastroenterological conditions; Spielberger's State-Trait Anxiety Questionnaire, Beck Depression Inventory, and Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire (BIPQ) were performed to consider psychological status. Results: Trait anxiety and the incidence of abdominal pain were significantly lower in patients having undergone laparoscopic surgery. No difference was found between the minimally invasive and conventional methods in the early complications. There were significantly more late complications developing after 30 days in patients who had undergone open surgery. Differences were found in personal control between patients with a stoma and patients without a stoma. Patients with a stoma felt they had less control over their disease. A significant correlation was found between the results of the psychological and gastrointestinal questionnaires. Conclusions: Minimally invasive technique provides a better long-term outcome for patients with UC, fewer complications, and a more balanced emotional condition. Favorable gastroenterological condition leads to better psychological status, which is negatively influenced by stoma or complications.