Lactose free diet as therapeutic strategy in low anterior resection syndrome: a case series

Abstract

Low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) is a challenging complication following sphincter-preserving rectal surgery, characterized by bowel dysfunctions such as urgency, frequency, and incontinence. This case series investigates the potential role of lactose intolerance in exacerbating LARS symptoms. Three patients who developed LARS after rectal resections showed persistent symptoms despite conventional management with bulking agents, physiotherapy, and loperamide. However, all three experienced significant improvement in symptomatology, reflected by reductions in their LARS scores, after eliminating cow’s milk from their diets. These findings suggest a potential link between lactose intolerance, including possible late-onset forms, and LARS symptoms. This study highlights the effectiveness of dietary modifications, particularly lactose elimination, as a simple and non-invasive strategy for managing LARS. The findings also support the need for dietary screening processes and recommendations for milk substitutes to enhance clinical care. Further research is necessary to validate these observations and refine therapeutic strategies.