Type of Surgery
Information
Last updated: 02/17/2009
Physical examination is most often used to diagnose rectal prolapse. The patient is asked to strain as if defecating; this increase in intra-abdominal pressure will maximize the degree of prolapse and aid in diagnosis. In some instances, imaging...
studies such as defecography (x rays taken during the process of defecation) may be administered to determine the extent of prolapse.
Before surgery, an intravenous (IV) line is placed so that fluid and/or medications may be easily administered to the patient. A Foley catheter will be placed to drain urine. Antibiotics are usually given to help prevent infection. The patient will be given a bowel prep to cleanse the colon and prepare it for surgery.
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Other Information
Definition:
This procedure is surgery to repair a rectal prolapse, the protrusion of the rectum (the last part of the colon) through the anus.
Description:
Rectal prolapse may be partial, involving only the mucosa, or complete, involving the entire wall of the rectum. It can occur in children but is much more common in older individuals.
Rectal prolapse in infants often gets better on its own and does not require surgery. Children with myelomeningocele and bladder exstrophy as well as children with cystic fibrosis are particularly at risk. Rarely it can be caused by acute diarrhea or straining to pass stool while constipated.
Rectal prolapse is most common in older individuals with a long history of constipation or weakness of the pelvic floor muscles. It is more common in women, especially those who have had a hysterectomy.
Other Information
Biliary colic is the presenting symptom in 80% of patients with gallstone disease who seek medical care; however, only 10-20% of all individuals with gallstones experience severe gallstone pain.
From: eMedicine
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