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Definition
By Mayo Clinic staffRectal prolapse surgery is a procedure to repair rectal prolapse. Rectal prolapse occurs when part of the rectum — the last several inches of the large intestine (colon) — protrudes from the anus. Rectal prolapse surgery can relieve discomfort and reduce fecal incontinence in most people with rectal prolapse.
Several techniques of performing rectal prolapse surgery exist. Your surgeon will suggest the appropriate rectal prolapse surgery approach for you based on your condition and your overall health. Rectal prolapse surgery is typically done under general anesthesia and requires you to stay in the hospital for a few days.
Why it's done
References
- Marderstein EL, et al. Surgical management of rectal prolapse. Nature Clinical Practice Gastroenterology & Hepatology. 2007;4(10):552.
- Townsend CM, et al. Sabiston Textbook of Surgery. 18th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2007. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/105659175-2/0/1565/0.html. Accessed Sept. 25, 2008.
- Rectal prolapse. American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons. http://www.fascrs.org/patients/conditions/rectal_prolapse/. Accessed Sept. 25, 2008.
- Felt-Bersma RJF, et al. Rectal prolapse, rectal intussusceptions, rectocele, solitary rectal ulcer syndrome, and enterocele. Gastroenterology Clinics of North America. 2008;37(3):645.
- Pemberton JH (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Nov. 18, 2008.
