Rectal Prolapse

Rectal Prolapse Specialist Los Angeles

Rectal prolapse is a condition characterized by the protrusion or descent of the rectum through the anal opening. It can cause discomfort, embarrassment, and disruption to daily life. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for rectal prolapse, providing valuable insights for individuals affected by this condition. If you suspect you have rectal prolapse or are experiencing discomfort, call to schedule a consultation with our experienced colorectal surgeons here at Surgery Group LA. By tailoring treatment approaches to the individual's needs, our colorectal surgeons help you find relief from symptoms, enhance their quality of life, and work towards long-term well-being.
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Overview

What is Rectal Prolapse?

Rectal prolapse occurs when the rectum—the last portion of the large intestine—loses its normal attachments within the pelvis and protrudes through the anal opening. It can range from a minor protrusion to a more severe condition where the rectum extends out of the body.

Symptoms & Causes

What causes Hemorrhoids?

Rectal prolapse can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

  • Weakness of the pelvic floor muscles and ligaments due to aging or childbirth
  • Chronic constipation or straining during bowel movements
  • Conditions such as chronic diarrhea, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or cystic fibrosis
  • Previous surgery in the pelvic area
  • Neurological disorders affecting bowel function, such as multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injury

What are the symptoms of Rectal Prolapse?

Symptoms of rectal prolapse may vary depending on the severity of the condition but often include:
  • The sensation of a lump or protrusion outside the anus
  • Redness, swelling, or irritation around the anus
  • Difficulty controlling bowel movements (fecal incontinence)
  • Anal bleeding or discharge
  • Pain or discomfort during bowel movements
  • A feeling of incomplete bowel emptying
  • Anal itching or irritation

Diagnosis & Screening

How is Rectal Prolapse diagnosed?

Diagnosing rectal prolapse typically involves a physical examination and medical history review by a healthcare provider. Additional diagnostic tests may be ordered to evaluate the extent and severity of the prolapse, including:

  • Digital rectal exam: A healthcare provider inserts a gloved finger into the rectum to assess the condition of the rectal tissues.
  • Anoscopy or sigmoidoscopy: These procedures involve inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera (anoscope or sigmoidoscope) into the rectum to visualize the inside of the rectum and anus.
  • Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy may be recommended to evaluate the entire colon for any underlying conditions contributing to rectal prolapse.

Treatment

How is Rectal Prolapse treated?

The treatment approach for rectal prolapse depends on several factors, including the severity of symptoms, overall health, and individual preferences. Treatment options may include:

  • Lifestyle modifications: Making dietary changes to improve bowel regularity, managing constipation, and avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms (e.g., heavy lifting) can help alleviate symptoms of rectal prolapse.
  • Pelvic floor physical therapy: Strengthening exercises for the pelvic floor muscles and biofeedback techniques may help improve muscle tone and control, reducing the risk of prolapse recurrence.
  • Medications: In some cases, medications such as stool softeners, fiber supplements, or anti-diarrheal agents may be prescribed to manage underlying conditions contributing to rectal prolapse, such as constipation or diarrhea.
  • Manual reduction: For mild or intermittent rectal prolapse, a healthcare provider may be able to manually push the rectum back into place during a physical examination.

What surgical interventions are used to treat Rectal Prolapse?

In cases where conservative measures are ineffective or the prolapse is severe, surgical repair may be recommended. Surgical procedures for rectal prolapse include:
  • Rectopexy: Surgical fixation of the rectum to the surrounding tissues to restore its position and prevent further prolapse.
  • Resection: Removal of a portion of the rectum may be necessary in some cases, particularly if there are significant structural abnormalities or damage.
  • Colostomy: In rare cases of severe rectal prolapse that cannot be corrected with other surgical techniques, a colostomy may be performed to divert stool away from the prolapsed area temporarily.

Prevention

How Can I Manage a Rectal Prolapse before or after surgery?

Preventing rectal prolapse from occurring or recurring post surgery involves adopting healthy habits and lifestyle modifications to reduce the risk of pelvic floor weakness and rectal tissue damage. Here are some strategies to help manage rectal prolapse before or post-surgery:

  • Maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly: Aim for a balanced diet and regular physical activity to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Exercise strengthens the muscles of the pelvic floor and helps support the structures that prevent rectal prolapse.
  • Practice good bowel habits: Adopting healthy bowel habits, such as eating a high-fiber diet, staying hydrated, and avoiding delaying or forcing bowel movements, can help prevent straining during bowel movements, which is a significant risk factor for rectal prolapse.
  • Avoid heavy lifting and treat constipation promptly: Heavy lifting increases intra-abdominal pressure and strains the pelvic floor muscles, potentially leading to rectal prolapse. Address constipation promptly by incorporating dietary fiber, staying hydrated, and using stool softeners or laxatives under medical guidance.
  • Practice pelvic floor exercises (Kegels): Pelvic floor exercises, such as Kegels, involve contracting and relaxing the muscles of the pelvic floor. Regularly performing these exercises can strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and improve support for the rectum, reducing the risk of prolapse.
  • Avoid smoking: Smoking has been linked to pelvic floor dysfunction and an increased risk of pelvic organ prolapse, including rectal prolapse. Quitting smoking can help reduce this risk and improve overall pelvic floor health.
  • Seek prompt treatment for pelvic floor disorders: If you experience symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction, such as pelvic pressure, urinary or fecal incontinence, or pelvic organ prolapse, seek evaluation and treatment from a healthcare provider specializing in pelvic floor disorders. Early intervention can help prevent the progression of pelvic organ prolapse and improve outcomes.

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Seeking care from rectal prolapse specialists is essential for effective management. Our dedicated team of doctors are experienced in rectal prolapse treatment, ensuring that you receive expert care tailored to your condition. We're here to answer your questions and guide you on your journey to better health.

Surgery Group of LA is a multi-specialty surgical practice based in Los Angeles, dedicated to providing expert, compassionate care across a wide range of specialties including colorectal, thyroid, general, and minimally invasive surgery. Our board-certified surgeons are committed to delivering personalized treatment using the latest technology and techniques.

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