Our Summary

This research paper investigates the effectiveness of different surgical treatments for rectal prolapse in men. Rectal prolapse is uncommon in men, but can be prevalent in certain populations. The research aims to discover which surgical methods offer the best results in terms of lower recurrence rates and better functionality post-surgery.

To do this, the researchers examined numerous studies from medical databases, looking for information on the success of surgeries on men over 18 who had full-thickness rectal prolapse. They were interested in the recurrence rate of the prolapse after surgery, and how well bowel, urinary, and sexual functions were restored. They took into account any complications that occurred post-surgery.

They included 28 studies in their research, which involved a total of 1751 men. Only two of these studies focused solely on men. The surgical methods used in the studies varied, and the recurrence rate of the prolapse after surgery ranged from 0% to 34%. Information on sexual and urinary function was not well-documented in the studies, but it appeared that dysfunctions were not common.

The conclusion of the research was that there is not enough evidence to recommend a specific surgical approach for rectal prolapse in men, due to the small sample sizes and inconsistent results. More research is needed to determine the most effective surgical treatment.

FAQs

  1. What is the recurrence rate of rectal prolapse in men after surgery?
  2. Does rectal prolapse surgery in men affect sexual or urinary function?
  3. Is there a recommended specific surgical approach for rectal prolapse in men?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about rectal prolapse surgery is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully, including maintaining good hygiene, avoiding heavy lifting, and eating a high-fiber diet to prevent constipation, which can put strain on the surgical site. It is also important to attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any concerns promptly.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended rectal prolapse surgery include those who have tried conservative treatments such as dietary changes, pelvic floor exercises, and medication without success. Surgical intervention is usually recommended for patients with severe symptoms such as chronic constipation, fecal incontinence, and the protrusion of the rectum through the anus. Additionally, patients with recurrent rectal prolapse or those who are experiencing significant discomfort, pain, or interference with daily activities may also be candidates for surgery. Ultimately, the decision to undergo rectal prolapse surgery should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider who can assess the individual’s specific condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment option.

Timeline

Timeline of patient experience before and after rectal prolapse surgery:

Before surgery:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms such as pain, bleeding, and protrusion of the rectum.
  2. Patient undergoes diagnostic tests such as colonoscopy or imaging to confirm the diagnosis of rectal prolapse.
  3. Patient discusses treatment options with their healthcare provider and decides to undergo surgical intervention.
  4. Pre-operative preparations are made, including fasting before surgery and possibly bowel preparation.

After surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes rectal prolapse surgery, which can be performed through abdominal or perineal approaches.
  2. Patient is monitored closely in the immediate post-operative period for complications such as bleeding or infection.
  3. Patient may experience pain and discomfort in the days following surgery, which can be managed with pain medication.
  4. Patient is advised to follow post-operative care instructions, including dietary restrictions and activity limitations.
  5. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the healing process and assess for any complications.
  6. Over time, patient should experience a resolution of symptoms such as rectal prolapse and improved bowel function.
  7. Long-term follow-up may be needed to monitor for recurrence of rectal prolapse and assess functional outcomes such as sexual and urinary function.

Overall, the timeline of a patient’s experience before and after rectal prolapse surgery involves pre-operative evaluation, surgical intervention, post-operative recovery, and long-term monitoring for recurrence and functional outcomes.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the success rate of rectal prolapse surgery in men?
  2. What are the potential complications associated with rectal prolapse surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery period after rectal prolapse surgery?
  4. Will I need to make any lifestyle changes after the surgery?
  5. What are the potential long-term effects of rectal prolapse surgery?
  6. Are there any alternative treatment options to surgery for rectal prolapse?
  7. How many procedures of this type have you performed, and what is your success rate?
  8. Will I need to follow a specific diet or exercise regimen after the surgery?
  9. How soon can I resume normal activities after rectal prolapse surgery?
  10. What should I do if I experience any complications or side effects after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Fagan G, Bathgate A, Dalzell A, Collinson R, Lin A. Journal: Colorectal Dis. 2023 Jun;25(6):1116-1127. doi: 10.1111/codi.16534. Epub 2023 Mar 18. PMID: 36847704