Outcomes following Turnbull–Cutait abdominoperineal pull-through compared with coloanal anastomosis

Abstract Background The Turnbull–Cutait abdominoperineal pull-through procedure (T-C) is used as a last resort to avoid permanent diversion in patients with complex anorectal conditions. The aim was to evaluate short- and long-term outcomes after T-C. Methods Patients undergoing T-C from 1996 to 2007 were reviewed retrospectively in terms of demographics, diagnosis, indications and postoperative complications. Patients were contacted to obtain functional outcomes using a standardized questionnaire. Functional outcomes were compared with those in a matched group of patients undergoing handsewn coloanal anastomosis (CAA) for rectal cancer. Results Sixty-seven patients (40 men) underwent T-C. Postoperative complications included stricture in 11 patients (16 per cent), fistula in five (7 per cent), prolapse of the colon in five (7 per cent) and leak in two (3 per cent). Mean follow-up was 5·6 (s.d. 3·2) years. The operation failed in 17 patients (25 per cent). Among 44 patients (66 per cent) who completed questionnaires, faecal (P = 0·121) and urinary (P = 0·073) incontinence, and sexual function (P = 0·063) were comparable to those in patients who had CAA. Conclusion T-C is an option for patients with complex anorectal conditions that might otherwise require permanent diversion. Functional outcomes are comparable to those of CAA.