Health-related quality of life scores of ultralow rectal cancer patients after conformal sphincter preservation operation compared to newly derived preoperative EORTC QLQ-C30, CR38 reference values and EORTC QLQ-C30 norm

The Long-term QoL after CSPO can exceed the preoperative level and reach a similar level to general population. However, postoperative diarrhea symptoms and decreased sexual function and enjoyment should be taken seriously and measures should be actively taken to promote recovery. Patients stage III-IV had limited benefits compared to other subgroups, and the selection and surgical procedures need to be more cautious.