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Rectal Prolapse

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Rectal Prolapse

Rectal Prolapse

Last updated: 15 January 2025

Category: diseases

Understanding Rectal Prolapse:

Rectal prolapse occurs when the rectum, the lower part of the large intestine, protrudes outside the anus. This can happen partially or completely, leading to discomfort, pain, and difficulty with bowel movements. There are several types of rectal prolapse, including partial, complete, and internal prolapse, each with its own set of symptoms and treatment options.

 

Symptoms: 

Rectal prolapse may present with various symptoms, such as:

  • A sensation of a bulge or protrusion from the anus
  • Difficulty with bowel movements
  • Incontinence (inability to control bowel movements)
  • Anal pain or discomfort
  • Bleeding from the rectum

How Bangalore Gastro Centre Can Help:

Prompt Diagnosis and Intervention: 

We utilize advanced diagnostic techniques to accurately identify the type and severity of rectal prolapse, allowing for tailored treatment plans.

Personalized Treatment Strategies: 

Our gastroenterologists develop individualized treatment plans based on your specific condition and health needs, which may include conservative management or surgical intervention.

Compassionate Care and Support: 

We understand the physical and emotional challenges associated with rectal prolapse and offer compassionate support to guide you through your treatment journey.

Results: 

Timely intervention is crucial for managing rectal prolapse effectively and improving quality of life. With prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment, our goal is to alleviate symptoms and restore normal bowel function.

Potential Complications: 

Untreated rectal prolapse can lead to complications such as chronic pain, fecal incontinence, and ulcers. Seeking medical attention early can help prevent these risks and improve outcomes.

Prevention:

While some risk factors for rectal prolapse may not be preventable, maintaining good bowel habits, avoiding straining during bowel movements, and seeking prompt medical care for any rectal symptoms can help reduce the likelihood of prolapse.

Meet Our Expert Gastroenterologists: 

Our team of skilled gastroenterologists specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of rectal prolapse, ensuring that you receive personalized care tailored to your unique needs.

Contact Information: 

For appointments and inquiries, please reach out to us: 
Tel: 080-4688-8888 
Email: info@bangaloregastrocentre.com
Visit our website www.bangaloregastrocentre.com for more information and to schedule a consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about this treatment and condition.

What is rectal prolapse and what are the different types?

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Rectal prolapse occurs when the rectum (lower part of the large intestine) protrudes outside the anus. There are three types: partial prolapse (only the inner lining protrudes), complete prolapse (the entire rectal wall protrudes), and internal prolapse (rectum telescopes but doesn't protrude outside). It can occur in children (usually resolves spontaneously) or adults (typically requires treatment). The condition causes discomfort, difficulty with bowel movements, and potential complications if untreated.

What causes rectal prolapse and who is at risk?

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Causes include weakened pelvic floor muscles from childbirth, aging, or injury, chronic constipation and straining, chronic diarrhea, previous anal or rectal surgery, neurological conditions affecting nerve control, and anatomical abnormalities. Risk factors include advanced age, female gender (6 times more common), multiple pregnancies, chronic constipation, cystic fibrosis in children, and conditions causing increased abdominal pressure. Strengthening pelvic floor muscles can help prevent progression.

What are the symptoms of rectal prolapse?

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Symptoms include a visible protrusion of tissue from the anus, especially during bowel movements or straining, feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation, difficulty controlling bowel movements (incontinence), mucus or blood discharge, discomfort or pain in the rectal area, and difficulty sitting. Initially, the prolapse may reduce spontaneously, but it often becomes permanent over time. The amount of tissue protruding can vary from small to several inches.

How is rectal prolapse diagnosed?

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Diagnosis is based on physical examination, often requiring the patient to strain or bear down to demonstrate the prolapse. Additional tests may include defecography (special X-ray during bowel movement), anorectal manometry to measure muscle function, colonoscopy to rule out other conditions, and sometimes MRI for detailed pelvic floor evaluation. The examination helps determine the type and extent of prolapse, which guides treatment decisions.

What are the treatment options for rectal prolapse?

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Treatment depends on the type and severity. Conservative options include dietary changes to prevent constipation, pelvic floor exercises, and stool softeners. Surgical options include abdominal procedures (rectopexy, resection rectopexy) performed through the abdomen with higher success rates, and perineal procedures (Delorme, Altemeier) performed through the anus with faster recovery but higher recurrence rates. The choice depends on patient age, health status, and prolapse characteristics.

What is the success rate of surgery for rectal prolapse?

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Surgical success rates vary by procedure type. Abdominal procedures have recurrence rates of 2-5% with good functional outcomes, while perineal procedures have recurrence rates of 5-20% but are better for elderly or high-risk patients. Most patients experience significant improvement in symptoms and quality of life. Complications are generally low with modern surgical techniques. Success depends on proper patient selection, surgical technique, and post-operative care including prevention of constipation.

What is the recovery process after rectal prolapse surgery?

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Recovery varies by surgical approach. Abdominal surgery typically requires 2-5 days in the hospital with 4-6 weeks full recovery, while perineal surgery may allow same-day discharge with 2-4 weeks recovery. Post-operative care includes pain management, dietary modifications to prevent constipation, gradual activity resumption, and avoiding heavy lifting for 6-8 weeks. Follow-up appointments monitor healing and bowel function. Most patients return to normal activities within 4-8 weeks.

Can rectal prolapse be prevented or managed without surgery?

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Prevention and non-surgical management include maintaining regular bowel habits with adequate fiber and hydration, avoiding straining during bowel movements, performing pelvic floor exercises (Kegels), treating underlying conditions causing constipation or diarrhea, maintaining healthy weight, and using proper toilet positioning. In mild cases or poor surgical candidates, supportive devices or manual reduction techniques may provide temporary relief, but surgery is usually needed for definitive treatment.

What complications can occur with untreated rectal prolapse?

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Untreated rectal prolapse can lead to worsening prolapse requiring more complex surgery, chronic pain and discomfort, fecal incontinence affecting quality of life, ulceration and bleeding of protruding tissue, trapped or strangulated prolapse requiring emergency treatment, and psychological distress from embarrassment and lifestyle limitations. Early treatment prevents complications and offers better surgical outcomes with less complex procedures.

How does rectal prolapse affect bowel function and daily life?

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Rectal prolapse significantly impacts bowel function, causing difficulty with complete evacuation, fecal incontinence ranging from minor leakage to complete loss of control, need for manual reduction of the prolapse, and discomfort during sitting or physical activities. Daily life effects include social anxiety, lifestyle restrictions, hygiene challenges, and reduced quality of life. Successful treatment typically restores normal bowel function and eliminates the physical and psychological burden of the condition.

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Our specialists are here to provide personalized treatment and answer any additional questions you may have.

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