Anal Prolapse
Pain, bleeding, or itching in the rectum?
Don’t ignore, it can be Anal Prolapse!
The anal or rectum is the lowest part of the digestive tract, and it may move out of its current position and bulge further down. The anal muscles then protrudes through the anal opening. It appears to be a small reddish, fleshy mass protruding from the anus. It occurs more frequently in older women over the age of 50, however is common among men also.
About Anal/Rectal Prolapse
Anal or rectal prolapse occurs when the anal muscles slips out of its normal position and hangs out of the anus. Although it may seem too awkward, this condition is not considered an emergency because it has no effect on digestion or other physical functions. However, it should not be ignored for an extended period of time because it can lead to complications.
This prolapse occurs in three different ways.
- External Prolapse : When the entire anal hangs out of the anal opening, this is referred to as external prolapse
- Mucosal prolapse : It occurs when only a portion of the rectal outer wall can be seen through the anus
- Internal prolapse : It happens when the anal muscles slips out of its position but has not yet protruded out of the anus
Symptoms of Anal/Rectal Prolapse
- Obstructed bowel movements
- Protrusion of the rectum through the anus
- Chronic constipation
- Bleeding from the rectum
- Inability to control bowel movements
- Diarrhea
Causes of Anal/Rectal Prolapse
- Long-term diarrhoea or severe constipation
- For bowel movements, excessive pressure is applied
- Age-related deterioration of the supporting ligaments and muscles
- A severe pelvic injury that extended to the anal
- Multiple pregnancies and vaginal childbirth can harm the nerve responsible for muscle contraction
- Damage related to nerves occurs when the spinal cord is injured or diseased
Know the Best Treatment for Anal Prolapse
To diagnose anal prolapse, the doctor may perform a simple clinical test. Ultrasound, anal electromyography, colonoscopy, anal manometry, proctography, and an MRI scan may also be recommended to diagnose the condition.
Anal prolapse is usually treated surgically, and constipation therapies such as stool softeners, suppositories, and other medications are also available. Anal prolapse can be treated surgically in a variety of ways. After considering your age, physical condition, and bowel function, the doctor will determine the best approach for you.
For anal or rectal prolapse treatment, there are two types of surgery:
- Abdominal surgery : This surgery is performed via laparoscopy or through a larger incision in the abdomen. Rectopexy is the process of repositioning the anal. They secure the anal to the sacrum with a mesh sling or sutures (back wall of the pelvis). Before the rectopexy, a portion of the intestine may be removed.
- Perineal rectosigmoidectomy (rectal prolapse repair through the area around the anus) : During this procedure, the surgeon pulls out the anal through the anus, removes a portion of the anal area and sigmoid, and attaches the remaining anal to the colon (large intestine).
The delorme procedure, another method of repairing rectal prolapse through the perineum, is more commonly used for short prolapses. The lining is removed to shorten the anal, and the muscular layer is folded.
Why Should You Not Delay Treatment?
If you experience any of the symptoms of rectal prolapse, you must consult a doctor. Ignoring the symptoms for too long can make them more painful and uncomfortable for you. There is also the possibility of other complications arising due to this medical condition.
- Bleeding from anal
- Ulcers on anal
- Strangulation of anal
- Can cause gangrene
Our team of Laparoscopic surgeons at Medicover Hospitals is highly skilled, experienced and equipped to addresses the issues of anal prolapse in an integrated and holistic manner, ensuring that patients receive hassle-free treatment and are on the road to a speedy recovery.
The expert team consists of fellowship-trained and board-certified doctors and surgeons with expertise in performing less-invasive surgeries using the cutting-edge technology.
