Significance of tumor height, size, and Total Mesorectal Excision (TME) in the discrepancy between POLARS and actual LARS score in rectal tumors post Low Anterior Resection (LAR)

Background: The number of cases of rectal tumors is increasing. Currently, colorectal cancer ranks third in terms of incidence and the second cause of cancer-related deaths in the world. Low Anterior Resection (LAR) surgery apparently still causes postoperative complications, namely LAR Syndrome, which has an effect on a patient's quality of life. Pelican Cancer Foundation released an application, namely POLARS. In several studies, the POLARS results are different from the actual LARS. It is necessary to carry out research regarding this matter. The aim of this study was to determine whether the POLARS score corresponds to the actual LARS. Next, examine which factors are the main causes of LARS so that they can be considered for curative or preventive measures. Methods: The research was conducted in a retrospective cohort. The actual LARS score was obtained using a questionnaire. Complete sample data was obtained from 75 patients. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 22 for Windows. Results: After analyzing the bivariate correlation test, the factors that individually play a role in the actual LARS are TME, Tumor Height, Tumor Level, Tx, dan Tumor Size with p<0.05. In multivariate analysis, only Tumor Height and Tumor size play significant roles in LARS (p<0.05). Conclusion: There is a significant difference between POLARS and Actual LARS score. POLARS Score does not match LARS Actual Score. The main risk factors for LARS are tumor height and size. Other risk factors are TME, tumor level, and Tx. It is necessary to revise or modify the POLARS tools to implement them in our center.