Rectal Prolapse Surgery
In Singapore

Rectal prolapse is a condition that affects many people around the world, and it can be extremely uncomfortable, embarrassing, and even lead to serious health complications if left untreated.

Dr Jonathan Foo Shuo Min

Senior Consultant General Surgeon

What is Rectal Prolapse?

Rectal prolapse occurs when the rectum (the last part of the large intestine) slips out of its normal position inside the body and protrudes through the anus. This condition is more common in older adults, particularly women, but it can affect people of any age. There are several factors that can contribute to the development of rectal prolapse, including chronic constipation, straining during bowel movements, weakened pelvic floor muscles, and nerve damage. Additionally, certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injuries, can increase the risk of developing rectal prolapse.

Causes and Symptoms of a Prolapsed Rectum

The primary cause of a prolapsed rectum is the weakening of the muscles and ligaments that hold the rectum in place. This weakening can occur due to a variety of factors, such as ageing, childbirth, or previous surgeries in the pelvic area. Chronic constipation and straining during bowel movements can also contribute to the development of rectal prolapse.
Symptoms of a prolapsed rectum can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some common symptoms include:

A feeling of fullness or pressure in the rectum
Pain or discomfort during bowel movements
The sensation of incomplete evacuation after a bowel movement
Leakage of stool or mucus
Visible protrusion of the rectum through the anus (in the case of external prolapse)

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.

Types of Rectal Prolapse: Internal and External

There are two main types of rectal prolapse: internal and external.

Also known as intussusception, occurs when the rectum folds in on itself but does not protrude through the anus. This type of prolapse is often more challenging to diagnose and may require specialized testing.

External rectal prolapse, on the other hand, is more easily identifiable, as the rectum protrudes through the anus and is visible outside the body. This type of prolapse can be partial, involving only a portion of the rectum, or complete, where the entire rectum is displaced.

Rectal Prolapse Treatment Options

Treatment for rectal prolapse depends on the severity of the condition and the overall health of the individual. Some non-surgical treatment options may be recommended initially, including:

Making dietary changes to prevent constipation and straining
Performing pelvic floor exercises to strengthen the muscles that support the rectum
Using stool softeners or laxatives to reduce straining during bowel movements
Applying a cold compress or ice pack to the prolapsed rectum to reduce inflammation and help it retract

In some cases, these conservative measures may not provide adequate relief, and rectal prolapse surgery may be recommended. Rectopexy surgery is a common surgical treatment for rectal prolapse and has a high success rate.

Overview of Rectal Prolapse Surgery

Rectal prolapse surgery (rectopexy) is a procedure in which the rectum is repositioned and secured back into its normal position within the pelvis. There are several different surgical approaches that can be performed:

Abdominal rectopexy, where the surgery is performed through an incision in the lower abdomen
Laparoscopic rectopexy, which involves the use of small incisions and specialized instruments to reposition the rectum
Perineal rectopexy, a procedure performed through the anus, which involves the placement of a mesh or suture to support the rectum

The choice of surgical approach will depend on several factors, including the severity of the prolapse, the overall health of the patient, and the surgeon’s preference. Rectal prolapse surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia, and the patient will be required to stay in the hospital for a few days after the procedure. The surgery can take several hours, depending on the complexity of the case.

Rectal Prolapse Surgery Procedure

During the rectal prolapse surgery, the surgeon will reposition the rectum and secure it in place using sutures or a mesh. The mesh or sutures are placed over the rectum and attached to the surrounding tissue to provide long-term support.

If the surgery is performed through an abdominal incision, the surgeon may also need to remove a portion of the colon or rectum if it’s damaged due to prolonged prolapse.

After the surgery, the patient will be monitored in the hospital for several days to ensure proper healing and to manage any pain or discomfort. The surgeon may also recommend a bowel rest period, during which time the patient will follow a liquid diet to allow the surgical site to heal.

Rectal Prolapse Surgery Recovery Time and Tips

Recovery from rectal prolapse surgery can take several weeks, and the patient will need to follow specific care instructions to promote healing and reduce the risk of complications. Some tips for a successful recovery after rectal prolapse surgery include:

Resting as much as possible and avoiding strenuous activities
Drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration
Following a healthy diet that includes plenty of fibre to promote bowel regularity
Taking medications as prescribed to manage pain and prevent infection
Avoiding lifting heavy objects or straining during bowel movements
Attending follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing progress

Recovery time can vary depending on the individual and the surgical approach used. Patients may need to take several weeks off work or other activities to allow their body to heal properly.

Dr Jonathan Foo Shuo Min

Senior Consultant General Surgeon

Dr Jonathan Foo has expertise in managing various General Surgical and Colorectal conditions. He excels at advanced endoscopic, open and minimally invasive (“key-hole”) techniques, as well as robotic surgery.

Dr Foo is a specialist Colorectal surgeon with comprehensive training in other minimally invasive(laparoscopic) General Surgical conditions such as hernia repair and gallbladder surgery.

MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine & Surgery, NUS) 2002
MRCSEd (Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh) 2007
MMed (Master of Medicine in Surgery) 2008
Further Advanced Training At the Minimally Invasive Colorectal Unit in Portsmouth, UK

Dr Foo firmly believes that every surgical procedures must be customized to the individual in order to achieve an optimal outcome for his patients.

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Risks of Prolapse Surgery

Although rectal prolapse surgery is generally safe and effective, there are some risks associated with the procedure. These include the following:

The risk of complications associated with surgery, such as infection, bleeding, and damage to surrounding organs
The need for a recovery period that may impact daily activities and work
The potential for the prolapse to recur in the future

Discuss the potential benefits and risks of rectal prolapse surgery with your surgeon to determine the right treatment option for you.

Rectal Prolapse Surgery Costs

The cost of rectal prolapse surgery can vary depending on several factors, including the surgical approach used, the location of the hospital, and the patient’s insurance coverage.

Check with your insurance provider to determine what portion of the surgery costs will be covered and discuss any out-of-pocket expenses with your surgeon before the procedure.

Our clinics are under the following

insurance panels

For Singaporeans, Singapore Permanent Residents and Foreigners.
Please speak to our friendly clinic staff about using your insurance plans.

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Rectal Prolapse Surgery
In Singapore

What is Rectal Prolapse?

Causes and Symptoms of a Prolapsed Rectum