Minimally Invasive Surgery for Rectal Prolapse

Rectal prolapse occurs when the support around the rectum no longer functions properly. The rectum itself then protrudes from the anus. Patients feel a mass coming out of the anus. It often "prolapses" during bowel movements, and in severe cases, it can occur while standing. Rectal prolapse is repaired surgically by suturing the rectum to supporting structures within the abdominal cavity. In many cases, this surgery can be accomplished laparoscopically. If surgery is the form of treatment your doctor recommends, physicians at the Laparoscopic Surgical Center of New York can determine if you are a candidate for laparoscopic surgery.

What is Laparoscopic Surgery?

The laparoscope is a fiberoptic telescope that is connected to a high-resolution video camera. Four or five small incisions (1/4 inch to 1/2 inch) are made in the abdominal wall, one of which is usually just below the umbilicus (belly button). The images from the laparoscope are projected onto a television monitor to be viewed by the surgeon in the operating room. Small surgical instruments are inserted into the abdomen to perform the surgery. The abdomen is inflated with carbon dioxide gas in order to allow your surgeon to see the abdominal structures. The gas is removed from the abdomen before you wake from general anesthesia (you will be asleep for the entire procedure).

What Can I Expect After Surgery?

Most patients stay in the recovery room for two hours after the surgery and are given oral pain relievers for a few days. Patients are out of bed the day of the surgery. Discharge from the hospital is usually on the third day following surgery, and the majority of patients are back to normal activities in 10 days.

Are There Benefits of Laparoscopic Rectopexy?

• As there are small incisions, the amount of pain following surgery is reduced.
• Hospital stay is shorter than for traditional surgery
• Return to normal activity is more rapid.

Am I a Candidate for Laparoscopic Surgery?

Most patients with rectal prolapse are candidates for laparoscopic sutured rectopexy. However, some patients are not; therefore, it is important to consult with your surgeon beforehand. If performed by a qualified surgeon, laparoscopic rectopexy is as safe as the traditional operation.