Rectal Prolapse
Rectal prolapse occurs when the rectum (the last section of the large intestine) falls from its normal position within the pelvic area and sticks out through the anus. (The word "prolapse" means a falling down or slipping of a body part from its usual position.)
What is rectal prolapse?
Rectal prolapse is common in older adults who have a long-term history of constipation or a weakness in the pelvic floor muscles. It is more common in women than in men, and even more common in women over the age of 50 (postmenopausal women), but occurs in younger people too. Rectal prolapse can also occur in infants – which could be a sign of cystic fibrosis – and in older children.
The term "rectal prolapse" can describe three types of prolapse:
- The entire rectum extends out of the anus.
- Only a portion of the rectal lining is pushed through the anus.
- The rectum starts to drop down but does not extend out the anus (internal prolapse).
Is rectal prolapse just another name for hemorrhoids?
No. Rectal prolapse results from a slippage of the attachments of the last portion of the large intestine. Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels that develop in the anus and lower rectum. Hemorrhoids can produce anal itching and pain, discomfort and bright red blood on toilet tissue. Early rectal prolapse can look like internal hemorrhoids that have slipped out of the anus (i.e., prolapsed), making it difficult to tell these two conditions apart.
What causes rectal prolapse?
Rectal prolapse can occur as a result of many conditions, including:
- Chronic (long-term) constipation or chronic diarrhea
- Long-term history of straining during bowel movements
- Older age: Muscles and ligaments in the rectum and anus naturally weaken with age. Other nearby structures in the pelvis area also loosen with age, which adds to the general weakness in that area of the body.
- Earlier injury to the anal or pelvic areas
- Damage to nerves: If the nerves that control the ability of the rectum and anus muscles to contract (shrink) are damaged, rectal prolapse can result. Nerve damage can be caused by pregnancy, difficult vaginal childbirth, anal sphincter paralysis, spinal injury, back injury/back surgery and/or other surgeries of the pelvic area.
The symptoms of rectal prolapse include the feeling of a bulge or the appearance of reddish-colored mass that extends outside the anus. At first, this can occur during or after bowel movements and is a temporary condition. However, over time – because of an ordinary amount of standing and walking – the end of the rectum may even extend out of the anal canal spontaneously, and may need to be pushed back up into the anus by hand.
Firas Younis
Colorectal Surgeon
19 years of experience
Testimonials
19 years of experience
Testimonials
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I could not rate Mr Younis high enough in his care and explanation of procedures to me. He has a friendly manner which gave confidence to me and kept me fully aware of all possible outcomes.
My experiences with Mr Younis have been exceptional as is Mr Younis as a surgeon and a person. Mr Younis has always exhibited the highest professional standards when dealing with my care...
Mr Firas Younis handling of my diagnosis, operation and post operative appointment was 1st class. He was clear and concise in explaining my cancer diagnosis and what treatment...
A very good surgeon and competent, tells you what the outcome could be in a gentle manner not to alam you. On the after operation meeting shows interest in your views. On the whole the care...
Came to see me as I was waiting to go in for my operation to reassure me. He explains things very well so you know what’s going to happen.Lovely surgeon, and he will be there for me...
Dr Younis demonstrated his veteran experience on my first visit to his clinic when he immediately and correctly identified the problem that I had been struggling with for the past 6 months,
Mr Younis is highly skilled and experienced surgeon. Pre surgery he explained the process to me thoroughly and was reassuring and compassionate. After my surgery he was also very ...
Mr. Younis very caring and passionate surgeon. He explaine his management steps clearly and allowing enogh time to answer question. I would recommend him to all my friends and family who..
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