Rectal Prolapse
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What is rectal prolapse?
Rectal prolapse occurs when the rectum, the lowest part of the large intestine, slips out of its normal position and protrudes through the anus. Symptoms can range from a feeling of tissue bulging during a bowel movement to a visible prolapse that remains outside the body.
Some people also experience difficulty controlling bowel movements, leakage of mucus, or difficulty fully emptying the bowels. Although rectal prolapse can occur in anyone, it is more common in women and older adults.
What are the symptoms of rectal prolapse?
Symptoms may include:
- Tissue protruding from the anus
- Difficulty controlling bowel movements
- Leakage of mucus
- Constipation
- Feeling of incomplete evacuation
- Pelvic pressure or discomfort
What causes rectal prolapse?
Rectal prolapse often develops when the muscles and tissues that support the rectum become weakened over time. Factors that may increase the risk include:
- Chronic constipation and straining
- Aging and natural weakening of pelvic floor muscles
- Childbirth-related pelvic floor injury
- Pelvic floor disorders
- Neurologic conditions that affect muscle function
In many cases, no single cause can be identified. A colorectal specialist can help determine whether other pelvic floor conditions may also be contributing to symptoms.
Is rectal prolapse the same as hemorrhoids?
No. Although both conditions can cause tissue to protrude from the anus, they are different disorders.
Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels located near the anal opening. Rectal prolapse involves part of the rectum itself slipping outside the body.
Because the symptoms can appear similar, a professional evaluation is important to ensure an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
When should I see a colorectal specialist?
If you notice tissue protruding from the anus, difficulty controlling bowel movements, rectal bleeding, or persistent pelvic pressure, schedule an evaluation with a colorectal specialist. Early diagnosis can help identify the cause of symptoms and determine the most appropriate treatment options.
How is rectal prolapse diagnosed?
A colorectal specialist can often diagnose rectal prolapse through a discussion of your symptoms and a physical examination.
In some cases, additional testing may be recommended to better understand how the rectum and pelvic floor muscles are functioning. These tests may include:
- Defecography or videodefecography imaging
- Anorectal manometry
- Additional pelvic floor testing when needed
These evaluations can help guide treatment recommendations and determine whether surgery may be beneficial.
How is rectal prolapse treated?
Treatment depends on the severity of the prolapse, your symptoms, your overall health, and whether other pelvic floor disorders are present.
While managing constipation and avoiding excessive straining are important, established rectal prolapse often requires surgery to correct the underlying problem.
Surgical treatment may be performed through the abdomen or through the rectum, depending on the individual situation. You can talk to your clinician about whether you may be a candidate for minimally invasive approaches, including laparoscopic surgery. Your colorectal surgeon will recommend a treatment plan based on your specific condition and goals.
What results can I expect after treatment?
Many people experience significant improvement in their symptoms and quality of life following appropriate treatment for rectal prolapse. Outcomes vary based on several factors, including overall health, the severity of the prolapse, bowel function before treatment, and the type of procedure performed.
If bowel control has been affected by the prolapse, some people experience improvement after treatment as the tissues and muscles recover. Recovery of bowel function may continue for months after surgery.
Your surgeon can discuss expected outcomes, benefits, and potential risks based on your individual situation.
Specialized Care for Rectal Prolapse
The experts at LVPG Colon and Rectal Surgery have experience diagnosing and treating rectal prolapse and will work closely with you to develop an individualized treatment plan to relieving your symptoms, restore function, and improve quality of life.
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