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Lower Anterior Resection Syndrome (LARS)

LARS (Low Anterior Resection Syndrome) is difficult to define precisely. It refers to a cluster of symptoms that may appear particularly after surgery performed in the rectal area. Symptoms of the syndrome include, among others, a significant increase in bowel movement frequency, constant diarrhea, abdominal pain, and unpredictable bowel function.”

Lars-syndrome

Causes and Prevalence

Information about LARS syndrome in Finnish is scarce, despite the fact that, according to some estimates, it may affect as many as 20–40% of rectal cancer surgery patients worldwide. The manifestation of LARS is usually the sum of several physiological factors. Symptoms occur because the body has not adapted to the removal of a tumor and the surrounding area in the lower rectum. Surgery is the only curative treatment for colorectal cancer.

Symptoms of LARS Syndrome

Symptoms include fecal leakage or incontinence, increased frequency of bowel movements, a sudden urge to use the toilet, increased gas formation, pain, and irregular and unpredictable bowel function. Functional bowel disorders can significantly impact the quality of life. Symptoms often ease over time, though this can frequently take up to a couple of years. For some, however, symptoms affecting the quality of life may become permanent.

Treatment of Symptoms

The composition of nutrition affects bowel function, so it is advisable to seek help from a nutritionist. Eating small, regular meals and avoiding gas-producing foods (such as cabbage, beans, and onions) can help calm bowel function.

It is important to discuss your symptoms with a doctor. LARS syndrome can be treated according to symptoms using bulk-forming laxatives (e.g., Vi-Siblin) and medications that slow down bowel transit (e.g., Imodium). Bowel control can be improved with transanal irrigation (TAI), biofeedback training, and in some cases, sacral nerve stimulation (SNS). A permanent stoma may also be an option.

The “Toilet Pass” (Vessapassi) is a helpful tool when bowel function is irregular and unpredictable. The Toilet Pass is a member benefit of Colores. It is also a member benefit of other Cancer Organizations, provided there is a medical justification for it.

Peer Support is Available

Personal Peer Support

Through us, it is possible to receive personal peer support for living with LARS syndrome. You can talk with a trained volunteer peer supporter via telephone, email, or video call. You can send a request for personal peer support by filling out the form on our “Personal Peer Support” page or by emailing info@colores.fi.

Online Peer Support on Facebook

Peer support is also available online. We maintain a closed Facebook discussion group for colorectal cancer patients, which includes the association’s trained peer supporters. More information about the group can be found on the “Remote Peer Support” page. The discussion group is in Finnish, but most members understand English

Anniko ry provides peer support specifically for individuals living with anal incontinence (inability to control stool and/or intestinal gases). More information about the association’s activities can be found on their website here: Anniko | Finnilco Ry. You can also find information and peer support on the Inkotuki project pages: Inkotuki-hanke.