Our Summary

This research paper discusses a rare case of rectal prolapse - a condition where the rectum, the last part of the large intestine, slips outside the anus. In this unusual case, the rectal prolapse was severe, leading to a life-threatening situation called strangulation, where the blood supply to the rectum is cut off, causing tissue death. The patient, a 26-year-old man, was found to have a large mass protruding from his anus.

To treat him, the surgeons performed a rectosigmoidectomy with sacral rectopexy, a procedure where they removed 20 cm of the affected rectum and sigmoid colon (the part of the large intestine closest to the rectum and anus) and then secured the remaining rectum to the sacrum (the lower part of the spine). After the surgery, the patient recovered well, and a colostomy closure (a procedure to close an opening in the colon) helped restore the normal function of his bowel.

The successful outcome in this difficult case highlights the importance of surgical intervention in severe and unusual cases of rectal prolapse.

FAQs

  1. What is rectal prolapse and how does it become complicated?
  2. What surgical procedures were performed on the patient with the strangulated acute rectal prolapse?
  3. What was the outcome of the surgical treatment for the patient with rectal incarceration?

Doctor’s Tip

One tip a doctor might give a patient about rectal prolapse surgery is to follow postoperative care instructions closely, including taking prescribed medications, keeping the surgical area clean and dry, and avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous physical activity for a certain period of time. It is important to attend follow-up appointments with your surgeon to ensure proper healing and to address any concerns or complications that may arise.

Suitable For

Rectal prolapse surgery is typically recommended for patients who have a rectal prolapse that is causing symptoms such as rectal bleeding, pain, difficulty with bowel movements, or fecal incontinence. Surgery may also be recommended for patients with a rectal prolapse that is not responding to conservative treatments such as pelvic floor exercises or medications. Additionally, surgery may be necessary for patients with a strangulated or gangrenous rectal prolapse, as this can be a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate intervention.

Timeline

  • Patient experiences symptoms of rectal prolapse, such as feeling a bulge or mass in the rectal area, difficulty controlling bowel movements, and rectal bleeding
  • Patient seeks medical evaluation and diagnosis of rectal prolapse
  • Patient undergoes preoperative evaluations and tests to assess overall health and suitability for surgery
  • Patient undergoes rectosigmoidectomy with sacral rectopexy to repair the rectal prolapse
  • Patient experiences postoperative recovery and healing process
  • Patient may need to have a temporary colostomy to allow the rectum to heal
  • Patient undergoes colostomy closure and continuity restoration
  • Patient follows up with healthcare providers for postoperative care and monitoring of the rectal prolapse repair.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the risks and potential complications associated with rectal prolapse surgery?
  2. What type of surgery do you recommend for my specific case of rectal prolapse?
  3. How long is the recovery period after rectal prolapse surgery?
  4. Will I need to make any lifestyle changes or follow a special diet after surgery?
  5. What are the chances of the rectal prolapse reoccurring after surgery?
  6. How soon after surgery can I resume normal activities, such as exercise and work?
  7. Will I need to undergo any additional procedures or treatments following rectal prolapse surgery?
  8. What can I do to help prevent rectal prolapse in the future?
  9. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies for rectal prolapse that I should consider?
  10. How frequently will I need to follow up with you after the surgery for monitoring and check-ups?

Reference

Authors: El Moussaoui I, Limbga A, Dika M, Mehdi A. Journal: Scott Med J. 2018 May;63(2):57-59. doi: 10.1177/0036933018764035. Epub 2018 Mar 7. PMID: 29514581