Rectal Prolapse Specialists in Bilagumba, Ramanagara, Karnataka

What is Rectal Prolapse?

Rectal prolapse is a condition in which part or all of the wall of the rectum slips down and protrudes through the anus, occurring when the tissues and muscles that normally hold the rectum in place become weakened or stretched. It ranges from a partial prolapse involving only the inner lining to a complete, full-thickness prolapse of the entire rectal wall. It is more common in older women, particularly those with a history of chronic straining, multiple childbirths, or weakened pelvic floor muscles, though it can also occur in children due to different underlying causes.

Causes of Rectal Prolapse

Results from weakening of the pelvic floor muscles and the ligaments that support the rectum, often due to chronic straining from long-standing constipation, multiple vaginal deliveries, or age-related weakening of connective tissue. Other contributing factors include prior pelvic surgery, chronic coughing, and neurological conditions affecting the pelvic floor. In children, it is often associated with conditions such as cystic fibrosis or malnutrition.

Symptoms of Rectal Prolapse

A visible protrusion of reddish tissue from the anus, particularly during or after bowel movements, a sensation of a bulge or fullness in the rectum, mucus or blood discharge, fecal incontinence or difficulty controlling bowel movements, straining or difficulty during defecation, discomfort or pain in the anal area

Treatment & Types of Rectal Prolapse in Bilagumba, Ramanagara, Karnataka

Mild cases may be managed with dietary fiber and stool softeners to reduce straining, along with pelvic floor exercises to strengthen supporting muscles. Surgical repair is the definitive treatment for significant or persistent prolapse, with options including an abdominal approach to fix the rectum in place or a perineal approach for older or higher-risk patients. Treatment choice depends on the patient's overall health, prolapse severity, and surgeon assessment.

Rectal prolapse ranges from mucosal prolapse, involving only the inner lining of the rectum protruding through the anus, to full-thickness or complete prolapse, involving the entire rectal wall. It is also described as internal prolapse or intussusception, where the rectum folds in on itself without protruding outside the body, external prolapse, which is visible outside the anus, and pediatric prolapse, which typically has different underlying causes such as cystic fibrosis or malnutrition compared with the adult form.

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