Rectal Prolapse Surgery Overview

A rectal prolapse surgery is needed to correct a complication that occurs when the rectum protrudes through the anus, known as a rectal prolapse. Many complications can arise if a rectal prolapse is not corrected, including fecal incontinence. A rectal prolapse surgery can correct this issue and relieve many of the discomfort associated with the condition. A rectal prolapse surgery is most often used for severe cases of a rectal prolapse, not for those that are miner or only occur when there is strain to pass a bowel.

Rectal Prolapse Surgery

Prior to a rectal prolapse surgery, there are certain preparation steps that may be recommended. In most cases, a liquid diet will be consumed prior to the surgery to clear the intestinal tract and to flush stool from the colon and rectum. In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed. It may be required to use a special soap or to stop taking certain medications prior to the procedure.

There are a few different methods that can be used to conduct a rectal prolapse surgery. A common form of the surgery is the rectal prolapse repair through the anus. Regional anesthesia is used for this form of rectal prolapse surgery. During the surgery, the surgeon will remove a portion of the rectum through the anus, and stitch the colon to the remaining rectal tissue. This form requires a shorter hospital stay and less complications; however, it is common for a rectal prolapse to reoccur.

A rectal prolapse repair can also be conducted through the abdomen. This requires general anesthetics. During the procedure the surgeon enters the abdomen and pulls the rectum back into place, where it is then stitched and held in place with a mesh sling. This form of a rectal prolapse surgery has higher risks involved but is generally more effective.

Risks of Rectal Prolapse Surgery

While the surgery is considered to be relatively safe, there are risks of rectal prolapse surgery. Common risks that can occur from the surgery include bowel obstruction, damage to surrounding nerves and tissues, and bleeding. The rectum can begin to narrow and constipation can occur. Other risks associated with the surgery include infection and a reoccurrence of the rectal prolapse.

Rectal Prolapse Surgery Recovery

After the surgery there is recovery time involved. Rectal prolapse surgery recovery usually involves a hospital stay of a few days to allow the body to heal and regain bowel functions. A liquid diet is used immediately after the surgery and overtime the transition to solid foods will occur.

References:
"Rectal Prolapse Surgery" MayoClinic
"Rectal Prolapse" Emedicine
"Rectal Prolapse Repair" Medline