Translated abstract:
In this retrospective study we investigated intestinal symptoms, specifically rectal incontinence, as a chronic effect of conformal radiotherapy for carcinoma of the prostate and its influence on quality of life. A group of 105 irradiated patients specified varying degrees of rectal incontinence in a questionnaire, though it was mainly intermittently (< once a week) and mild. However, symptoms improved spontaneously with time. In case of continuing symptoms we offered clinical investigation and diagnostics, and a treatment plan. This was taken up by 16 of 57 patients with rectal incontinence. The most frequent cause of faecal incontinence was reduction of rectal compliance, which was treated successfully with Trospiumchloride (Spasmex®). Quality of life was comparable to the age-specific male german population.