Study of Brain-Gut Function Reconstruction After Intersphincteric Resection for Ultra-Low Rectal Tumors

Observation and Intervention Study of Brain-Gut Function Reconstruction After Intersphincteric Resection (ISR) for Ultra-Low Rectal Tumors

To investigate the effects of intersphincteric resection (ISR) of ultra-low rectal tumor on the brain-rectoanal function of patients, and to precisely localize the cerebral functional regulatory regions for intervention targets of anorectal remodeling. Utilizing transcranial magnetic stimulation(TMS) technology to explore the functional remodeling of the "new" anorectal muscle groups and provide a theoretical basis for more research on the rehabilitation and mechanism of fecal incontinence.

This study is a Single-center Phase II, Open, Three-Arm clinical trial. We prospectively enroll patients who undergo ISR for ultra-low rectal tumor in the department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University. Patients with ileostomy closure are randomly divided into two groups (TMS group and false stimulation group), and healthy volunteers were recruited. The differences of task-state fMRI between healthy volunteers, and ISR patients (both preoperative and postoperative) are compared, combined with rectal function scores (Wexner score, LARS score) and quality of life scale (EORTC QLQ-C30, EORTC QLQ-CR38). Proctoanal manometry are used to find the precise location of the proctoanal motor function area in the cerebral cortex, and to evaluate the effect and value of TMS on postoperative anorectal motor function remodeling in patients with ISR.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Primary ultra-low rectal tumor patient who is received intersphincteric resection and preventive ileostomy was performed.
• Patient who is willing to participate in the study, and voluntarily sign informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Anastomotic leakage or other serious complications occur after surgery.
• Advanced tumor, tumor recurrence or metastasis.
• Patients with contraindications of fMRI scanning, such as history of metal implants in the body, claustrophobia, etc.
• Patients with contraindications for TMS treatment, such as intracranial metal implants, epilepsy history, heart disease with unstable heart function, retinal detachment, etc.
• Combined with organic brain disease and drug abuse history.
• Combined with other mental diseases.
• Pregnant or lactating women.