Biofeedback magnetic stimulation improves postoperative bowel dysfunction after rectal cancer surgery.

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the clinical efficacy of biofeedback magnetic stimulation (BFMS) in the management of postoperative bowel dysfunction (PBD) after rectal cancer surgery and to identify independent predictors of treatment outcomes.

Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted involving 158 patients who underwent low anterior resection between 2018 and 2023. Patients were divided into two groups: the observation group, consisting of 83 individuals, received BFMS; whereas the control group, comprising 75 individuals, underwent conventional rehabilitation. Defecation function, anorectal manometric parameters - including resting and pressure (RAP), maximum squeeze pressure (MSP), and maximum tolerated volume (MTV) - as well as Wexner scores and QLQ-CR29 quality-of-life scores were assessed at 1, 2, and 3 months postoperatively.

Results: At 2 and 3 months postoperatively, the observation group showed significantly greater improvement in defecation function, anorectal pressure metrics, and quality of life scores compared to controls (P<0.05). The incidence of adverse reactions was comparable between groups (14.46% vs. 6.67%, P>0.05). Multivariate analysis revealed that anastomotic leakage, ultra-low rectal cancer, interspinous diameter, and treatment method were independent predictors of postoperative outcomes (P<0.05).

Conclusion: BFMS is a safe and effective therapeutic approach for improving bowel function and quality of life in patients with PBD after rectal cancer surgery. Anatomical and surgical variables may serve as important predictors of treatment response.