What is rectal prolapse?

Rectal prolapse, also known as proctoptosis, is a pathological condition characterized by the downward displacement of part or the entire wall of the rectum. This condition manifests as the protrusion of rectal mucosa or the full rectal wall outside the anus, potentially leading to symptoms such as fecal incontinence.

Rectal prolapse commonly occurs in children and in middle-aged and elderly women, particularly those who have had multiple childbirths. In children, the prolapse typically involves only the mucosa and often resolves spontaneously before the age of five. In adults, complete rectal prolapse is relatively rare, but when it does occur, repeated prolapse may cause injury to the pudendal nerve, increasing the risk of fecal incontinence. It may also lead to serious complications such as rectal ulcers, bleeding, narrowing, and even necrosis.

Treatment options include:

1. Mild cases of rectal prolapse can be managed through lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding prolonged standing or sitting and increasing dietary fiber intake, without surgical intervention.
2. Moderate to severe cases may require surgical treatment. Common surgical procedures include abdominal rectopexy and transanal rectal mucosal resection.

Prevention of rectal prolapse mainly involves maintaining healthy bowel habits, avoiding excessive straining during defecation, and promptly treating intestinal disorders such as constipation and diarrhea to reduce the impact of increased abdominal pressure on the rectum.