Risks
By Mayo Clinic staffRectal prolapse surgery carries a risk of serious complications. Each technique for repairing rectal prolapse has its own risks. But in general, rectal prolapse surgery risks include:
- Bleeding
- Bowel obstruction
- Damage to nearby structures, such as nerves and organs
- Infection
- Fistula — an abnormal connection between two body parts
- Recurrence of rectal prolapse
- Worsened constipation
References
- Rectal prolapse. American Society of Colon & Rectal Surgeons. http://www.fascrs.org/patients/conditions/rectal_prolapse/. Accessed April 17, 2013.
- Townsend CM Jr, et al. Sabiston Textbook of Surgery: The Biological Basis of Modern Surgical Practice. 19th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2012. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/208746819-6/0/1565/0.html. Accessed April 17, 2013.
- Jones OM et al. The assessment and management of rectal prolapse, rectal intussusception, rectocele, and enterocele in adults. BMJ. 2011;342:c7099.
- Varma MG et al. Surgical approach to rectal procidentia (rectal prolapse). http://www.uptodate.com/home. Accessed April 18, 2013.
- Chua HK (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. April 25, 2013.
- Picco MF (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. April 30, 2013.


Find Mayo Clinic on