ColomboSurgeon

Rectal prolapse

What is rectal prolapse?

 

Rectal prolapse occurs when the rectum (the last portion of the large intestine) slips or protrudes through the anus. This condition can range from mild, where only the rectum’s inner lining is involved, to severe, where the entire rectum extends outside the body.

 

Types of Rectal Prolapse

  • Internal Prolapse: The rectum folds within itself but doesn’t exit the anus.
  • Partial Prolapse: Only the mucosal lining of the rectum protrudes through the anus.
  • Complete Prolapse: The entire rectal wall protrudes outside the anus.
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What Causes rectal prolapse?

Rectal prolapse can be caused by a combination of factors:

  • Chronic constipation or straining during bowel movements.
  • Weakened pelvic floor muscles (common in older adults and women post-childbirth).
  • Neurological conditions affecting bowel control (e.g., multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injury).
  • Previous anorectal surgeries or trauma.
  • Long-term diarrhea or chronic coughing

 

Symptoms of Gastritis

  • A visible bulge or tissue protruding from the anus, especially during bowel movements.
  • Fecal incontinence (inability to control bowel movements).
  • Rectal bleeding or mucus discharge.
  • Pain or discomfort in the anal area.
  • A feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation.

 

RIsk factors

  • Age: More common in older adults due to weakened tissues.
  • Gender: Women are more likely to experience rectal prolapse than men.
  • History of Vaginal Delivery: Pelvic floor strain during childbirth increases risk.
  • Chronic Bowel Issues: Constipation or diarrhea.

When to See a Doctor

Contact your doctor if you experience:

  • Persistent or worsening rectal bulging.
  • Pain, bleeding, or discharge from the anus.
  • Difficulty controlling bowel movements.
  • Protrusion that doesn’t retract on its own.

 

How will a doctor identify rectal prolapse?

Your healthcare provider may perform:

  • Physical Examination: A visual inspection of the anus and rectum during a strain maneuver.
  • Defecography: X-rays or imaging studies to assess rectal function during bowel movements.
  • Colonoscopy: To rule out other conditions like tumors or inflammatory bowel disease.

 

 

Treatment for rectal prolapse

  • Non-Surgical Approaches (for mild cases):
    • Dietary Changes: High-fiber diet and adequate water intake to reduce straining.
    • Pelvic Floor Exercises: Strengthening muscles through physical therapy.
    • Stool Softeners or Laxatives: To prevent constipation.
  • Surgical Options (for moderate to severe cases):
    • Rectopexy: Reattaching the rectum to its proper position inside the pelvis.
    • Perineal Procedures: Removal of the prolapsed section through the anus (suitable for frail or elderly patients).