Prolapse

A prolapse is when part of our body moves down from its normal position. In a rectal prolapse, part of the rectum slips down and protrudes from the anus. 

An internal prolapse (rectal intussusception) is where the colon doesn’t fall outside the anus, but slips into the lower sections of the rectum. This can result in an obstruction, causing patients to experience difficulty opening their bowels.

While men can suffer from this condition, it’s very rare. Due to differences in pelvic anatomy, the majority of prolapse cases affect women.

There are multiple causes but, generally speaking, it’s due to weakness in the muscles and connective tissue, which allows the large bowel to prolapse through the anus.

This weakness can happen after pregnancy, or develop with age, meaning that women over 60 are most likely to be affected by a prolapse.

At CRSC, we offer a range of procedures, including robotic surgery.

Treatment is tailored to your individual needs and will depend on the extent and severity of your symptoms, as well as other circumstantial factors.

The options range from medication only treatment, to surgery to remove part of the bowel, either through the anus (Delormes or Altemeier’s procedure) or through robotic surgery (rectopexy or resection rectopexy).

For procedures that require the use of an artificial mesh, we use predominantly biological meshes. This is to avoid potential long-term complications that can arise from the use of synthetic mesh.

Get in touch for an in-depth assessment and personalised treatment plan. We’re waiting to hear from you and happy to help.