Rectal Prolapse

Rectal prolapse (also called anal prolapse or prolapso anal) occurs when part of the rectum or the anus slips out of its normal position and bulges through the anal opening. It may look like a small, reddish, fleshy mass sticking out of the anus.

This condition is more common in older adults, especially women over the age of 50, though it can also affect men and occasionally children.

About Anal/Rectal Prolapse

Anal prolapse or rectal prolapse happens when the anal muscles and surrounding tissues weaken, allowing the rectum to protrude through the anus. While it might feel awkward or alarming, this condition is not typically an emergency, as it doesnot directly affect digestion. However, ignoring the symptoms can lead to complications.

Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.

Get Second Opinion

What is Prolapse?

Prolapse is a medical condition in which an organ falls from its normal position. In the case of anal prolapse or rectal prolapse, the rectum or its lining slips outside the body through the anal opening.

Understanding the Three Different Ways Prolapse Can Occur

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 slip out of their position but have 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

Best Treatment for Rectal /Anal Prolapse

To confirm anal prolapse, a doctor may do a physical exam and recommend imaging like ultrasound, anal electromyography, colonoscopy, anal manometry, proctography, or MRI.

Non-Surgical Management

In mild cases, treatment of anal prolapse may include:

Stool softeners and laxatives
High-fiber diet and hydration
Avoiding straining
Pelvic floor exercises

Surgical Management

If the anal or rectal prolapse is moderate to severe, surgery is usually needed. The type of surgery depends on your age, health, and how well your bowels are working. There are Three types of surgery used to treat it.

1. 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.

2. Perineal rectosigmoidectomy

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.

3. Delorme Procedure

Used for short prolapses
Involves removing the mucosal lining and tightening the muscle layer

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

Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.

Schedule Your Appointment

Expert Care for Rectal and Anal Prolapsepe

At Medicover Hospitals, our skilled surgeons use advanced tools and give complete care to treat anal prolapse, helping patients recover smoothly and stay healthy.

Frequently Asked Questions

In the beginning, you may feel a bulge or pressure in the anal area, especially during bowel movements. Some people also feel incomplete emptying.

No. Although both cause bulging from the anus, rectal prolapse involves the rectum slipping out, while hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels.

In very mild cases, symptoms may get better with changes like eating more fiber and not straining. But for most people, a full anal prolapse cure needs medical treatment.

Preventive measures include eating a high-fiber diet, staying hydrated, avoiding straining during bowel movements, and treating constipation promptly.

Untreated prolapse can lead to chronic discomfort, difficulty with bowel movements and complications like infections or tissue damage.

Yes, recurrence is possible, especially if underlying causes like chronic constipation are not addressed.