Bowel function is significantly affected after rectal surgery. While sphincter-preserving techniques aim to maintain anal continence, many patients experience a spectrum of bowel dysfunction, collectively known as Low Anterior Resection Syndrome (LARS). LARS includes symptoms such as incontinence, constipation, urgency, and stool clustering, which can severely impact a patient’s quality of life. The prevalence of LARS is alarmingly high, affecting a majority of patients, and symptoms can persist for years after surgical treatment.

Target audience

• Gastroenterologists
• Colorectal surgeons
• Oncologists
• Nurses/Stoma therapists
• Primary care physicians

Building on the foundations covered in Part 1, this second course provides a deeper dive into the essential steps of guideline development. Participants will learn how to identify when a new guideline or statement is warranted, formulate focused clinical questions using PICO, and translate these into comprehensive search strategies. The course also covers the application of GRADE domains to assess evidence certainty, and guides learners through the Evidence-to-Decision framework. Finally, it clarifies the difference between good practice statements and formal guideline recommendations, ensuring participants gain the practical skills needed to contribute effectively to high-quality guideline development.

Target Audience:

• Healthcare professionals interested in developing guidelines
• Patients and stakeholders interested in understanding the process of guideline development