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Rectal Prolapse

What Is Rectal Prolapse?

Rectal prolapse is a medical condition that occurs when the rectum (the end of the large intestine) protrudes through the anus. It can be a distressing and embarrassing condition that can significantly affect a person's quality of life. If you experience any symptoms of rectal prolapse, it is important to seek medical attention for proper treatment for improved quality of life.

What Are the Symptoms Of Rectal Prolapse?

The primary symptom of rectal prolapse is the protrusion of the rectal tissue through the anus. Other symptoms can include -

  • A feeling of fullness or pressure in the rectum
  • A sense of incomplete bowel movements
  • Bleeding from the rectum
  • Faecal incontinence
  • Pain and discomfort during bowel movements
  • Anal itching and irritation

What Are the Causes Of Rectal Prolapse?

The exact cause of rectal prolapse is unknown, but several factors can contribute to the development of this condition, such as - 

  • Weakness in the pelvic floor muscles - The pelvic floor muscles are responsible for supporting the rectum, anus, and other pelvic organs. Weakness in these muscles can cause the rectum to prolapse.
  • Chronic constipation - Chronic constipation can cause straining during bowel movements, which can weaken the muscles that support the rectum.
  • Chronic diarrhoea - Chronic diarrhoea can cause irritation and inflammation in the rectum, which can contribute to the development of rectal prolapse.
  • Age - As we age, the muscles and tissues that support the rectum can weaken, making it more susceptible to prolapse.
  • Pregnancy and childbirth - The strain of pregnancy and childbirth can weaken the pelvic floor muscles, increasing the risk of rectal prolapse.

How Is Rectal Prolapse Diagnosed?

The doctor usually recommends the following tests to determine rectal prolapse - 

  • Digital rectal exam
  • Anal manometry
  • Colonoscopy
  • Defecography

What Are The Treatment Options For Rectal Prolapse?

Rectal prolapse treatment depends on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, conservative treatments may be effective, while more severe cases may require surgery. Here are some of the treatment options for rectal prolapse -

  • Bowel management - A high-fibre diet, stool softeners, and laxatives can help manage constipation and reduce the risk of rectal prolapse.
  • Pelvic floor exercises - Pelvic floor exercises can help strengthen the muscles that support the rectum.
  • Medications - Medications, such as topical creams and suppositories, can help reduce inflammation and discomfort.
  • Surgery - If conservative treatments are not effective, surgery may be necessary. There are several surgical options, including rectopexy, which involves attaching the rectum to the pelvic bones to prevent it from prolapsing, and a resection, which involves removing the prolapsed tissue and reattaching the rectum to the anus.

Why Choose CMRI for Rectal Prolapse Treatment in Kolkata?

The Calcutta Medical Research Institute (CMRI) is one of the largest multispecialty hospitals in Kolkata. Our hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, revolutionising the healthcare industry for the best surgical outcomes. 

In addition, CMRI has several eminent specialists, doctors and healthcare providers of national and international reputations for comprehensive and personalised treatment. CMRI provides patient-centric care and empathy from internationally trained nurses to ensure holistic care for patients seeking treatment for rectal prolapse. Here are a few advantages of choosing CMRI for rectal prolapse treatment- 

  • Highly qualified and experienced doctors
  • 440-bed capacity along with cutting-edge technology and the latest medical equipment
  • Hygienic and patient-friendly infrastructure
  • Thorough screening and diagnosis
  • Transparent Pricing Structure for cost-effective treatment
  • Patient-centric, high-quality care for a high success rate
  • Pain management and palliative care
  • Complete and coordinated care for patients with all types of cancers.

FAQs

Is rectal prolapse dangerous?

Yes, prolonging treatment for rectal prolapse can lead to possible complications such as - 

  • Risk of damage to the rectum like ulceration and bleeding
  • Incarceration
  • Strangulation of the rectum
  • Death and decay (gangrene) of the strangulated section of the rectum

How to treat partial rectal prolapse?

While symptoms of rectal prolapse can sometimes be managed with stool softeners, suppositories and other medications, surgery is the only effective method to treat rectal prolapse.

Is rectal prolapse common in toddlers?

Yes, rectal prolapse is common in infants and toddlers with most children responding to conservative treatment methods.

Why does rectal prolapse happen?

The primary cause of rectal prolapse is caused due to the weakening of the muscles that support the rectum.

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Dr. Ajay Mandal's association with Calcutta Medical Research Institute (CMRI)

Dr. Ajay Mandal's association with Calcutta Medical Research Institute (CMRI)

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