Rectal prolapse (patient information)

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Assistant Editor-in-Chief: Meagan E. Doherty

Overview

Rectal prolapse is when the tissue that lines the rectum falls down into or sticks through the anal opening.

What are the symptoms of Rectal prolapse?

The main symptom is a reddish-colored mass that sticks out from the opening of the anus, especially following a bowel movement. The lining of the rectal tissue may be visible and may bleed slightly.

What are the causes of Rectal prolapse?

Rectal Prolapse is often associated with the following conditions:

• Constipation
• Cystic fibrosis
• Malnutrition and malabsorption (celiac disease is an example)
• Pinworms (enterobiasis)
• Prior injury to the anus or pelvic area
• Whipworm infection (trichuriasis)

Who is at risk for Rectal prolapse?

• elderly patients
• children under the age of 6
• Patients with any of the associated conditions listed above

How to know you have Rectal prolapse?

The health care provider will perform a physical exam, which may include a rectal exam. Tests will be done to determine the underlying cause.

When to seek urgent medical care

Call your health care provider promptly if there is a rectal prolapse.

Treatment options

Call your health care provider if a rectal prolapse occurs. In some cases, the prolapse can be treated at home.

The rectal mucosa must be returned to the rectum manually. A soft, warm, wet cloth is used to apply gentle pressure to the mass to push it back through the anal opening. The affected person should be in a knee-chest position before applying pressure to allow gravity to help return the prolapse.

Immediate surgery for repair is seldom needed. The underlying condition must be treated.

Diseases with similar symptoms

• Hemorrhoids
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Rectal/Colon cancer

Where to find medical care for Rectal prolapse

Directions to Hospitals Treating Rectal prolapse

Prevention of Rectal prolapse

Treating the underlying condition usually prevents further rectal prolapse.

What to expect (Outlook/Prognosis)

Treating the underlying condition usually cures the problem. In otherwise-healthy elderly patients with recurrent rectal prolapse, surgery can repair anatomic problems that predispose them to prolapse.

Possible Complications

• Constipation
• Malnutrition or malabsorption
• Other complications of the condition that caused the prolapse

Sources

• http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001132.htm