A Prospective Study of Quality of Life in Patients Undergoing Pelvic Exenteration

The purpose of this study is to learn more about the personal experiences of patients who are treated with pelvic exenteration, a surgical procedure in which the pelvic organs (including the reproductive organs, bladder, and/or rectum) are removed. This procedure is sometimes performed in patients with cancers of the reproductive organs, colon/rectum, or urinary system.

Doctors would like to understand more about the physical, emotional, educational, and sexual needs of patients who are treated with this surgery. Before and after surgery, patients will be asked about all areas of their lives, including physical well-being, social interactions, ability to work, spiritual life, and sexual feelings or activities.

Researchers will use what they learn from this study to help find better ways of preparing patients for this type of surgery, and enable them to be better able to address patients’ needs after surgery.