Rectal Prolapse

Sometimes it can be difficult to distinguish rectal prolapse from hemorrhoids. To help diagnose rectal prolapse and rule out other associated conditions, your doctor may recommend:

Digital rectal exam. Your doctor inserts a gloved and lubricated finger into your rectum to evaluate the strength of your sphincter muscles and to check for any abnormalities in the rectal area. During the exam your doctor may ask you to bear down, to check for rectal prolapse.

Anal manometry. A narrow, flexible tube is inserted into the anus and rectum. A small balloon at the tip of the tube may be expanded. This test helps measure the tightness of your anal sphincter and the sensitivity and functioning of your rectum.

Colonoscopy. To rule out other conditions, such as polyps or colon cancer, you may have a colonoscopy, in which a flexible tube is inserted into your rectum to inspect the entire colon.

Defecography. This procedure combines the use of a contrasting agent with an imaging study, such as x-ray or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Defecography can help reveal structural changes in and around your lower gastrointestinal tract and show how well your rectal muscles are working.

In the first instance, it is important to relieve the symptoms and allow easier bowel movements. Doctors may recommend a high fiber diet, stool softeners, and bowel training, as well as drinking plenty of water.

If that does not work, then a doctor will suggest a surgical optionTrusted Source. The type of surgery will depend on several factors:

type of prolapse

the person’s age

other medical problems

whether the person has constipation

There are two general types of surgery for rectal prolapse:

Abdominal

This method involves making an incision in the belly, or lower abdomen. The surgeon then pulls the rectum upward and attaches it to other structures in the body to hold it in the appropriate position.

Perineal

This approach does not involve an abdominal incision. Instead, a surgeon cuts the protruding rectum and attaches the remaining rectum to the anus.