The transverse coloplasty pouch (TCP) - Function and subjective judgement in comparison with the surgically more complicated J-pouch

The present study shows the comparison of function and subjective judgement between two pouch-constructions after TME as treatment for rectal cancer. In 61 cases we constructed a J-Pouch, in 25 cases a transverse coloplasty pouch (TCP). The sex distribution was nearly the same. The influence of additional treatment like neoadjuvant radiotherapy or adjuvant chemo-radiatio was considered. Patients were asked about stool frequency, -consistency, continence, quality of life etc. 9 patients were not alive at follow up. 54 patients (70%) could be interviewed and examined. 6 months after operation patients with a J-Pouch had a daily stool frequency of 4 times versus 6 times with a TCP. 19% of patients with a J-Pouch suffered from incontinence problems compared to 33% with a TCP. Obstipation was only a problem after J-Pouch-construction (12%). The question on a "good" quality of life was positively answered by 56% of patients in the J-pouch-group versus 39% in the TCP-group. 17% after J-pouch-construction versus 6% after TCP-construction judged the quality of life as "bad". The results of this study show the TCP being a good alternative pouch-construction instead of the surgically more complicated J-pouch after TME.