Caring for patients with coloanal reservoirs for rectal cancer
Young, M.
Medsurg Nursing Official Journal of the Academy of Medical-Surgical Nurses 9(4): 193-197
2000
ISSN/ISBN: 1092-0811 PMID: 11040662 Document Number: 516878
Advances in surgical techniques enable select patients with rectal cancer to have sphincter-saving procedures that restore the continuity of the GI tract, eliminating the need for a permanent colostomy. One of the preferred surgical options is the construction of a coloanal reservoir or colonic J-pouch. This procedure is usually performed in two stages (two surgeries) and involves creating a temporary ileostomy. Patients undergoing treatment for rectal cancer frequently require adjunctive therapy for the disease before and after surgery. They require extensive education and support during the course of treatment and through rehabilitation.