Information From Your Health Care Provider

RECTAL PROLAPSE

Basic information

description

Rectal prolapse is a protrusion (bulging) of rectal tissues outside the anus. Partial prolapse is protrusion of the mucosa (inner lining) alone. Complete prolapse (procidentia) is protrusion of the entire thickness of the rectum. It can affect adults (usually over age 60) and children (usually under age 6).

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

Sense of fullness in the lower abdomen or rectal area.
Mucus discharge sometimes tinged with blood from the rectum.
Firm mass of tissue that can be felt at the anus. It may worsen after a bowel movement.
Pain when having bowel movements.
Bowel incontinence. Stool may leak from anus.

causes

Weakness of muscles and ligaments holding the rectum in place. Why the weakness occurs is unknown.

risk increases with

Aging.
Previous surgery on the rectum or vagina.
Constipation and straining to have bowel movements.
Chronic diarrhea.
Weak anal sphincter.
Multiple sclerosis.
Stroke, paralysis, or spinal tumor.
Anal or pelvic injury.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Multiple pregnancies.
Malnutrition.
Parasitic infections.
Cystic fibrosis (children).
Neurological (mental) disorders.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

None specific. Do not strain when having bowel movements. Avoid constipation and diarrhea. Eat a high-fiber diet.

expected outcomes

Good prognosis with treatment. In children, there is usually complete recovery.

possible complications

Ulceration (sores) and bleeding in tissue that protrudes.
Rectal prolapse may occur with another prolapse, such as the uterus or the bladder.
Rectal prolapse may recur.

diagnosis & treatment

general measures

Your health care provider will do an exam of the rectal area. Medical tests may include a defecogram (a special x-ray), anal muscle function tests, and others if needed. Cystic fibrosis tests may be done in children.
Treatment varies according to underlying cause. Causes of straining need to be corrected.
In children, prolapse is usually temporary.
Occasionally, minor prolapse can be reversed by gently pushing the protruding tissue back into the rectum.
For most patients, surgery is usually needed to repair the prolapse. There are several different options available. Your health care provider will explain them to you and discuss the risks and benefits. Surgery is usually done under a general anesthetic.
Use sanitary napkins or absorbent pads for mucus discharge.

medications

To prevent constipation, bulk-formers or stool softeners may be prescribed.

activity

Recovery from surgery may take 4 to 6 weeks. Then resume normal activities gradually.

diet

Drink plenty of fluids each day. Eat a diet high in fiber to prevent constipation.

notify our office if

You or a family member has symptoms of rectal prolapse.
Rectal pain or bleeding occur.
Fever or chills develop, indicating infection.
Symptoms return after treatment.