REMACS - Impact of Perineal Reconstruction After Extended Margin Cancer Surgery on Quality of Life, Complications, and Health Costs A Prospective Longitudinal Cohort Study

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying advanced pelvic cancers, which are rare and often require complex treatment involving radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and surgery. Surgery typically involves removing multiple pelvic organs and surrounding tissues, which can lead to complications affecting recovery and quality of life. This study aims to investigate the frequency of these complications, quality of life, and related costs following different reconstruction techniques to help improve decision-making for patients and doctors. This observational study has three parts: maintaining a database of patients undergoing colorectal surgery, conducting a national prospective cohort study to assess morbidity, quality of life, and healthcare resource use, and a qualitative study using interviews to explore patient experiences after surgery. Patients undergoing surgeries like abdominoperineal excision or pelvic exenteration will be followed, with reconstruction methods chosen by the surgeon. Data such as surgery details, complications, and resource use will be collected and analyzed. Participants will complete quality of life and financial impact questionnaires at baseline, 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery, either by telephone or email. Clinical data, imaging, and hospital resource use will also be recorded. The qualitative study will involve interviews with selected patients at 3 and 12 months post-surgery to deepen understanding of recovery and long-term outcomes. The study will analyze these data to evaluate the impact of different reconstruction methods on patient health and healthcare costs over time.

Reconstruction in Extended MArgin Cancer Surgery