Gynecologic Specialties
| Rectal Prolapse Description Rectal prolapse is a protrusion of the tissue of the rectal wall through the anal canal. In severe cases, this circular ring of rectal wall protrudes through the anus and outside the body. The protruding tissue may be visible or palpable, especially during defecation. In more mild cases, the upper rectum protrudes into the lower rectum but remains inside the woman's body. Rectal prolapse may be associated with constipation, difficult defecation, and anal incontinence. Diagnostic procedures This condition may be diagnosed during a gynecologic examination or with a rectal examination (when the physician inserts a finger into the rectum). In some cases, the prolapse may not be evident until the woman is asked to bear down or strain. In some cases, a defecography x-ray or MRI study (see above) may be required to diagnose this condition. Other tests to evaluate rectal prolapse may include colonoscopy (looking inside the colon with a scope or camera) and anal manometry (measures of pressure in the rectum and near the anal opening). Current treatment options Rectal prolapse is generally treated with surgery. The nature of the recommended surgery will depend on the type and degree of the prolapse, the woman's overall health, and any associated bowel function problems. In many cases, a suspension of the rectum is recommended, in which the rectum is attached to strong ligaments inside the pelvic cavity. A segment of the colon may be removed in some cases. Research ongoing Links
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