What Is Rectal Prolapse?

This post was written with Consensus AI Academic Search Engine – please read our Disclaimer at the end of this article. Rectal prolapse is a medical condition where the rectum, the final section of the large intestine, protrudes through the anus. This condition can be partial, involving only the mucosal layer, or complete, where the entire wall of the rectum is displaced outside the body3 5.

Epidemiology

Rectal prolapse predominantly affects elderly and parous women, although it can occur in men and nulliparous women as well3 9. In children, it is relatively common and usually self-limiting, with peak incidence between 1 and 3 years of age10.

Pathophysiology

The exact cause of rectal prolapse is not fully understood, but it is believed to be associated with a combination of factors including pelvic floor weakness, chronic straining, and rectal redundancy. Studies have shown that rectal redundancy, or excessive length of the rectum, plays a significant role in the development of rectal prolapse9. Additionally, the condition is often linked to a history of chronic constipation, diarrhea, or previous pelvic surgeries3 9.

Symptoms

Patients with rectal prolapse typically present with a variety of symptoms, including:

• A visible bulge or protrusion from the anus, especially during bowel movements3 5.
• Fecal incontinence or leakage3 5.
• Rectal bleeding or mucus discharge3 5.
• Sensation of incomplete evacuation3 5.
• Chronic constipation or obstructed defecation3 5.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of rectal prolapse is primarily clinical, based on the patient’s history and physical examination. During a physical exam, the prolapse can often be seen when the patient strains as if having a bowel movement. Additional diagnostic tools may include defecography, colonoscopy, and anorectal manometry to assess the extent of the prolapse and rule out other conditions3 5.

Conclusion

Rectal prolapse is a distressing condition that significantly impacts the quality of life of affected individuals. Understanding its pathophysiology, symptoms, and diagnostic methods is crucial for effective management and improving patient outcomes. Further research is needed to fully elucidate the underlying causes and develop standardized treatment protocols.

Disclaimer

The content presented in this blog is generated by Consensus, an AI-powered academic search engine, and is based on publicly available scientific literature. While every effort is made to provide accurate, up-to-date, and well-researched information, the content is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding medical conditions, treatments, or medications. The AI system’s analysis may not cover all perspectives, emerging research, or individual cases, and it is not a substitute for professional expertise. Neither the blog publisher nor the developers of the AI-powered search engine are responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this content. Use of this information is at your own risk. Citations to the original scientific studies are included for reference, but these studies should be reviewed in full and interpreted with the guidance of a healthcare or research professional.

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please seek immediate attention from a healthcare provider.