PELVIC FLOOR DISORDER
Rectal Prolapse
A condition in which part or all of the rectum slips out through the anus — causing a visible bulge, mucus discharge, bleeding, and difficulty in controlling bowel movements.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Rectal Prolapse
Rectal prolapse is a condition in which the rectum loses its normal attachment to the surrounding tissues and slips down through the anus. It can be partial (mucosal prolapse) or complete (full-thickness prolapse), and is most commonly seen in older women, often linked to weakening of the pelvic floor muscles, chronic constipation, and previous childbirth. Patients typically notice a bulge protruding from the anus during straining, which may initially reduce on its own but later require manual repositioning. Other symptoms include mucus discharge, bleeding, faecal incontinence and a sensation of incomplete evacuation. Untreated rectal prolapse can significantly affect quality of life and sometimes lead to ulceration. Dr. Tejasree Vengala offers complete rectal prolapse care — from laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy to perineal procedures at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Age-related weakening of pelvic floor muscles
- Chronic constipation and prolonged straining
- Previous vaginal childbirth and pelvic surgery
- Long-standing chronic cough or heavy lifting
- Neurological conditions affecting pelvic nerves
- Connective tissue disorders and weak rectal supports
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Partial (mucosal) or Complete (full-thickness) prolapse.
Rectopexy, Ventral Mesh Rectopexy, Delorme, Altemeier, Resection Rectopexy, Thiersch.
Abdominal (laparoscopic) procedures for fitter patients; perineal for elderly.
Most patients resume routine activities within 2–4 weeks.
Restore normal anatomy, improve continence, reduce constipation symptoms.
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hitech City, Hyderabad.
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Laparoscopic Ventral Mesh Rectopexy
Dr. Tejasree Vengala performs laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy — a modern, sphincter-preserving keyhole surgery in which the rectum is gently lifted and secured using a soft mesh. It offers excellent long-term results with low recurrence, minimal pain, and a faster return to normal life compared to traditional open repair.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Tejasree assesses the prolapse, evaluates pelvic floor function, and may order MRI defecography or anorectal manometry for complete planning.
- 2
Treatment Planning
The most suitable approach is chosen based on age, fitness and severity — laparoscopic rectopexy for fitter patients, perineal procedures for high-risk elderly.
- 3
Procedure
The chosen surgery is performed under general or regional anaesthesia. Laparoscopic rectopexy usually takes 90–120 minutes.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Most patients are discharged within 2–3 days, return to routine activities within 2–4 weeks, and follow up to monitor continence and bowel habits.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Rectopexy
Surgical fixation of the rectum to the sacrum to restore its normal position — performed laparoscopically for less pain and faster recovery.
Ventral Mesh Rectopexy
Laparoscopic placement of a soft mesh on the front of the rectum to lift and support it — gold-standard technique with low recurrence.
Delorme Procedure
Perineal surgery in which the redundant prolapsed lining is removed and the muscle is plicated — suitable for elderly or high-risk patients.
Altemeier Procedure
Perineal rectosigmoidectomy that removes the prolapsed rectum through the anus — done in select elderly patients with full-thickness prolapse.
Resection Rectopexy
Combines removal of redundant sigmoid colon with rectopexy — useful when severe constipation accompanies prolapse.
Thiersch Procedure
Reinforcement of the anal opening with a supportive material — reserved for very frail patients unfit for major surgery.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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