Rectal prolapse overview
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Shaghayegh Habibi, M.D.[2]
Overview
Rectal prolapse normally describes a medical condition wherein the walls of the rectum protrude through the anus and hence become visible outside the body.
Historical Perspective
In medieval times, scientists suggested that rectal prolapse could be prevented by using a scar (through burning the anus) or by using a stick. In the 20th century, rectal prolapse was studied scientifically and Nowadays there are various surgical methods for rectal prolapse treatment.
Classification
Rectal prolapse may be classified into complete and incomplete subtypes based on disease extension or be classified into pediatric and adult subtypes based on age of presentation. Also it may be classified by disease grading.
Pathophysiology
Rectal prolapse starts from rectal intussusception, followed by external mucosal prolapse, and eventually a full protrusion of all layers of the rectum. Rectal prolapse is associated with several coexisting anatomic abnormalities including diastasis of the levator ani, abnormally deep cul-de-sac and redundant sigmoid colon.
Causes
Common causes of rectal prolapse include rectal denervation, perineal nerve injury, kinking of the redundant loop of sigmoid colon, loss of rectal compliance and altered colonic motility.
Differentiating Rectal prolapse overview from Other Diseases
Recatal prolapse must be differentiated from other diseases that cause anal discomfort such as hemorrhoids, anal fissure and perianal abscess, anal cancer and condylomata acuminata.