Rectal prolapse

Rectal Prolapse: Your Comprehensive Guide at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC) in Abu Dhabi

What is Rectal Prolapse?

Rectal prolapse, also known as a rectal hernia, is a medical condition that occurs when the lower part of the rectum, or sometimes part of the small intestine, slips through or protrudes outside the anus. Rectal prolapse can be uncomfortable and painful, and in some cases may require medical treatment.

Symptoms

The symptoms of rectal prolapse may include:

• A bulge or protruding mass near the anus, especially during bowel movements
• A feeling of fullness or heaviness in the rectum
• Difficulty passing stool or a sensation of incomplete evacuation
• Leakage of stool or mucus
• Mild to severe rectal bleeding
• Pain or discomfort in the rectum or lower abdomen

Causes

Several factors can increase the risk of rectal prolapse, including:

• Weakness of the Pelvic Floor Muscles: This may result from pregnancy and childbirth, obesity, ageing, prior surgery, or chronic medical conditions such as long-term constipation or chronic cough
• Increased Abdominal Pressure: Excess weight, pregnancy, constipation, uterine fibroids, or chronic cough may increase abdominal pressure, leading to rectal prolapse

Diagnosis

Rectal prolapse is typically diagnosed through a physical examination. To confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the condition, your doctor may also recommend tests such as a rectal examination, sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Treatment

Treatment for rectal prolapse depends on the severity of the condition and the symptoms experienced by the patient. Options may include:

• Lifestyle Changes: Increasing dietary fibre intake, drinking plenty of fluids, regular exercise, and avoiding constipation can help reduce symptoms and prevent worsening of the condition
• Medications: Laxatives or pain relievers may be prescribed to ease symptoms
• Sclerotherapy: Injecting a chemical solution into affected blood vessels to shrink them
• Banding (Ligation): Tying off enlarged blood vessels to stop blood flow
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be required to restore the rectum to its proper position

Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City: Specialised Care for Rectal Prolapse

At SSMC in Abu Dhabi, we provide advanced care for rectal prolapse through a team of highly experienced specialists in colorectal surgery, gastroenterology, oncology, and a dedicated nursing staff.

SSMC offers the latest techniques and treatment options for rectal prolapse, including:

• Robotic Surgery: Delivering greater precision and effectiveness in rectal surgery, leading to faster recovery and less pain
• Laparoscopic Surgery: Minimally invasive surgery performed through small incisions, reducing pain and scarring
• Laser Treatment: Used to treat enlarged blood vessels that may contribute to rectal prolapse