Rectal Prolapse Surgery

When a rectal prolapse occurs, it means that part of the colon is protruding from your anus. To correct the situation, surgeons at Celebration Colorectal will use one of two procedures to return the large intestine to its rightful place and prevent the issue from reoccurring. The exact procedure will depend on your condition and overall health. In most cases you will be in the hospital for a few days and can look forward to a full recovery.

A rectopexy and anterior resection is the most common procedure. While under general anesthesia, a small incision will be made in your abdomen to allow laparoscopic instruments to be inserted into the region. One of the instruments will contain a small camera to provide a live feed of the area. The rectum is isolated and then the sides are lifted and affixed to the lower backbone. The S-shaped sigmoid colon is removed and the two ends are reattached. This makes the lower portion of the colon straighter, making it easier to pass stool.

Alternately, surgeons may recommend perineal repair instead, which involves the perineum and anus. In this procedure the prolapsed portion of the rectum is removed and the ends reattached. In some cases only the inner lining of the prolapsed rectum is removed. The muscular layer is then folded and stitched.

Both methods result in restoring normal bowel movements. After the surgery is completed, your surgeon will go over post care, which can include abstaining from lifting heavy objects, standing for long periods of time or having sex, all of which can place a strain on the region.

If you are interested in learning more about rectal prolapse surgery options, please make an appointment today.