Our Summary

Rectal prolapse is a common, debilitating condition that often requires surgical correction. The two common surgical approaches can have complications, like issues related to the mesh used in the surgery or serious post-surgery constipation. This research paper discusses the results of a new surgical method for treating rectal prolapse that combines elements of the two common methods. This new method involves keyhole surgery, partial mobilization of the rectum, and the use of an absorbable mesh.

The researchers used this new method on 80 patients, mostly women with an average age of 67.5 years, with nearly a third of them having previously undergone rectal prolapse surgery. Recurrence of the prolapse was seen in about 14% of the patients, however, there were no complications related to the mesh used. Only a small number of patients reported post-surgery constipation.

The study concludes that this new surgical method could be a safe and effective treatment for rectal prolapse.

FAQs

  1. What is the new surgical method for treating rectal prolapse as discussed in the research paper?
  2. What were the results and complications reported after using the new surgical method on the 80 patients?
  3. Is the new surgical method for rectal prolapse considered safe and effective according to the study?

Doctor’s Tip

If you are considering rectal prolapse surgery, it is important to discuss all of your options with your doctor and carefully weigh the risks and benefits of each approach. Be sure to ask about this new surgical method and how it may compare to traditional techniques. It is also important to follow your doctor’s post-operative instructions carefully to ensure a smooth recovery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended rectal prolapse surgery are those who have tried conservative treatments such as pelvic floor exercises, dietary changes, and medications without success. Surgical intervention is usually recommended for patients who experience significant symptoms such as difficulty with bowel movements, fecal incontinence, and discomfort or pain in the rectal area.

Patients who have a full-thickness rectal prolapse, where the rectum protrudes through the anus, are often candidates for surgery. This condition can significantly impact quality of life and may require surgical correction to improve symptoms and prevent complications such as fecal incontinence or rectal ulceration.

Patients who have recurrent rectal prolapse, meaning that the prolapse has returned after a previous surgical repair, may also be recommended for surgery. In these cases, a different surgical approach may be considered to address any underlying issues that contributed to the recurrence.

Overall, the decision to recommend rectal prolapse surgery will depend on the individual patient’s symptoms, medical history, and overall health. It is important for patients to discuss the risks and benefits of surgery with their healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for their specific situation.

Timeline

Before the surgery:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms of rectal prolapse such as pain, discomfort, and the feeling of a bulge protruding from the rectum.
  2. Patient consults with a doctor and is diagnosed with rectal prolapse.
  3. Patient and doctor discuss treatment options, including surgical correction.
  4. Patient undergoes pre-operative testing and preparation for surgery.

After the surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes keyhole surgery, partial mobilization of the rectum, and the use of an absorbable mesh.
  2. Patient is monitored closely in the hospital for any complications post-surgery.
  3. Patient is discharged from the hospital and advised on post-operative care and follow-up appointments.
  4. Patient experiences a reduction in symptoms and improvement in quality of life.
  5. Patient follows up with the doctor for further evaluation and monitoring of the surgical site.
  6. Patient may experience a recurrence of the prolapse in some cases, but complications related to the mesh used are rare.
  7. Patient reports minimal post-surgery constipation.
  8. Research study concludes that the new surgical method is a safe and effective treatment for rectal prolapse.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about rectal prolapse surgery using this new method could include:

  1. What specific steps are involved in the keyhole surgery for rectal prolapse, and how does it differ from traditional surgical approaches?
  2. How does partial mobilization of the rectum during surgery affect the recovery process and long-term outcomes?
  3. What are the potential benefits of using an absorbable mesh in the surgery, and are there any risks or complications associated with its use?
  4. What is the success rate of this new surgical method in terms of preventing recurrence of rectal prolapse?
  5. How does this new method compare to traditional surgical approaches in terms of post-surgery complications, such as constipation?
  6. Are there any specific factors that could make a patient ineligible for this new surgical method, or increase the likelihood of complications?
  7. What is the expected recovery time and follow-up care required after undergoing rectal prolapse surgery using this new method?
  8. Are there any lifestyle changes or considerations that patients should be aware of after undergoing this type of surgery?
  9. What are the potential long-term outcomes and quality of life improvements that patients can expect after receiving this new surgical treatment for rectal prolapse?
  10. Are there any ongoing studies or research being conducted to further evaluate the effectiveness and safety of this new surgical method for rectal prolapse?

Reference

Authors: Thomas GP, Wong F, Vaizey CJ, Warusavitarne JH. Journal: Colorectal Dis. 2023 Dec;25(12):2378-2382. doi: 10.1111/codi.16804. Epub 2023 Oct 31. PMID: 37907714