Rectal and Anal Conditions

Rectal Prolapse

What is rectal prolapse?

A rectal prolapse is a condition in which the rectum protrudes through the anus. This is not a life threatening condition but it may be alarming for the sufferer. There are varying degrees of prolapse:

Incomplete prolapse - this is internal and therefore not visible from outside the anus
Mucosal prolapse - this involves only the inner lining of the rectum
Complete prolapse - protusion of the full thickness of the rectum

What causes a rectal prolapse?

The cause of rectal prolapse is largely unknown. Possible causes include

Excessive straining during defecation
Chronic constipation
Weak pelvic floor and anal sphincter muscles
Lack of fixation of the rectum to pelvis
Ageing process due to weakening of the ligaments supporting the rectum

What are the symptoms of rectal prolapse?

Protrusion of the bowel which generally occurs during defecation or when the intra abdominal pressure is increased either coughing or straining.
A feeling of an incomplete emptying of the rectum
Discomfort
Bleeding
Mucous discharge from the rectum
Incontinence or poor control of bowel motions

How will your doctor diagnose a rectal prolapse?

Your doctor may ask you to strain whilst in a sitting position, or ask you to go to the toilet to strain.
Your doctor may place a gloved finger in your rectum and ask you to squeeze your anus. This establishes anal pressure
Anal manometry -this is a test that measures if the muscles around the rectum are functioning normally.
Flexible sigmoidoscopy examination- this is a flexible telescope inserted through your anus into your rectum and sigmoid colon
Proctogram - an x-ray taken with contrast in the rectum

How is a rectal prolapse treated?

A prolapse may be treated with bulk laxatives in an attempt to reduce straining during bowel movement. However simple correction of these problems may not improve a prolapse once it has developed.

Surgical treatment for rectal prolapse is dependent on a number of factors:

Age
Physical condition
Extent of prolapse

Types of surgical procedures that your surgeon may discuss with you include:

Abdominal operations to fix the rectum in the pelvis.
Operations through the anus to tighten the area of rectum that has prolapsed.

Useful Contacts and Further Information

Concord Hospital has an internationally recognised Colorectal Unit and can be contacted on 97678360

Contact your General Practitioner

NSW Government | jobs.nsw