Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Treatment of Rectal Prolapse

Recurrence Rates and Risk Factors in the Altemeier Procedure for Rectal Prolapse: A Multicenter Study

BACKGROUND

Perineal proctosigmoidectomy (Altemeier) is a surgical procedure that is commonly used for the treatment of rectal prolapse. However, there is a diverse range of recurrence rates after Altemeier procedure repair that has been reported in the literature.

OBJECTIVE

To identify primary and subsequent recurrence rates after perineal proctosigmoidectomy and to define potential risk factors for recurrence.

DESIGN

Cohort study.

SETTINGS

Conducted at 6 hospitals affiliated with the Cleveland Clinic.

PATIENTS

The study included patients who were older than 18 years and were treated with the Altemeier procedure for rectal prolapse between 2007 and 2022.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Primary outcomes were rates of primary and subsequent recurrences. Secondary outcomes included potential risk factors for recurrence previously mentioned in the literature.

RESULTS

We identified 182 patients, of whom 95.1% were women, with a mean age of 79 years (SD 11.4). Overall, procedures were elective in 92.1% of patients, and 14.3% had previously undergone prolapse repairs (Delorme, Thiersch, abdominal suture rectopexy, and abdominal mesh rectopexy). At a mean follow-up period of 27.5 months (SD 45.7), 37.9% of patients experienced recurrence, with 16.5% of patients having multiple recurrences. A subsequent Altemeier procedure was performed in 72.5% of instances. Other treatments included Delorme, abdominal suture rectopexy, abdominal mesh rectopexy, or conservative management. This study identified connective tissue disorders and time since surgery as significant risk factors for recurrence.

LIMITATIONS

Retrospective design and varying follow-up periods.

CONCLUSIONS

Perineal proctosigmoidectomy is associated with a significant risk of recurrence. The risk of recurrence increased with the presence of a connective tissue disorder and in proportion to the elapsed time since surgery. These discoveries assist health care professionals in counseling and managing patients who undergo perineal proctosigmoidectomy for rectal prolapse. See Video Abstract .

TASAS DE RECURRENCIA Y FACTORES DE RIESGO EN EL PROCEDIMIENTO DE ALTEMEIER PARA EL PROLAPSO RECTAL UN ESTUDIO MULTICNTRICO

ANTECEDENTES:La proctosigmoidectomía perineal (Altemeier) es un procedimiento quirúrgico que se utiliza comúnmente para el tratamiento del prolapso rectal. Sin embargo, existe una amplia gama de tasas de recurrencia después de la reparación con el procedimiento de Altemeier que se han informado en la literatura.OBJETIVO:Nuestro objetivo fue identificar las tasas de recurrencia primaria y posterior después de la proctosigmoidectomía perineal, así como definir los posibles factores de riesgo de recurrencia.DISEÑO:Estudio de cohorte.AJUSTES:Realizado en 6 hospitales afiliados a la Clínica Cleveland.PACIENTES:Se incluyeron pacientes mayores de 18 años que fueron tratados con procedimiento de Altemeier por prolapso rectal entre 2007 y 2022.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE VALORACIÓN:Los resultados primarios fueron las tasas de recurrencias primarias y posteriores. Los resultados secundarios incluyeron factores de riesgo potenciales de recurrencia mencionados anteriormente en la literatura.RESULTADOS:Se identificaron 182 pacientes, de los cuales el 95,1% eran mujeres con una edad media de 79 años (DE 11,4). En general, el 92,1% fueron electivos y el 14,3% se habían sometido previamente a reparaciones de prolapso (Delorme, Thiersch, rectopexia con sutura abdominal y rectopexia con malla abdominal). En un período de seguimiento medio de 27,5 meses (DE 45,7), el 37,9% de los pacientes experimentó recurrencia, y el 16,5% de los pacientes tuvo recurrencias múltiples. En el 72,5% de los casos se realizó un procedimiento de Altemeier posterior. Otros tratamientos incluyeron Delorme, rectopexia con sutura abdominal, rectopexia con malla abdominal o manejo conservador. Este estudio identificó los trastornos del tejido conectivo y el tiempo transcurrido desde la cirugía como factores de riesgo importantes de recurrencia.LIMITACIONES:Diseño retrospectivo y períodos de seguimiento variables.CONCLUSIÓN:La proctosigmoidectomía perineal se asocia con un riesgo significativo de recurrencia. El riesgo de recurrencia aumentó con la presencia de un trastorno del tejido conectivo y en proporción al tiempo transcurrido desde la cirugía. Estos descubrimientos ayudan a los profesionales de la salud a asesorar y tratar a los pacientes que se someten a proctosigmoidectomía perineal por prolapso rectal. (Traducción-Dr. Ingrid Melo ).

Advancing the predictive accuracy of PNTML in rectal prolapse: An ongoing quest

Fecal incontinence is a common symptom among patients with rectal prolapse. Pudendal nerve terminal motor latency (PNTML) testing can serve as a reference indicator for predicting the outcomes of rectal prolapse surgery, thereby assisting surgeons in formulating more appropriate surgical plans. The direct correlation between preoperative PNTML testing results and postoperative fecal incontinence in patients with rectal prolapse remains a contentious issue, necessitating further clarification. Thus, we analyze the existing publications from both clinical and statistical perspectives to comprehensively evaluate the accuracy of preoperative PNTML testing in rectal prolapse and provide some feasible statistical solutions.

Less is more: Outcomes of surgical approaches to rectal prolapse in patients with cirrhosis

BACKGROUND

Patients with cirrhosis have increased risk of perioperative complications, and surgical management of concomitant rectal prolapse poses a challenge in these patients. Given the paucity of data informing this, our study aimed to evaluate postoperative outcomes.

METHODS

The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was queried for patients undergoing rectal prolapse repair from 2011 to 2019. Patients were stratified by cirrhosis (Model for End-Stage Liver Disease ≥10) and no cirrhosis. Bivariate and multivariable regression analyses were used to compare comorbidities, repair types, and identify predictors of postoperative outcomes.

RESULTS

We identified 2,234 patients: 332 patients with cirrhosis (Model for End-Stage Liver Disease 14 [10-34]). Patients with cirrhosis were older (76 ± 12 years vs 69 ± 17, P < .001) with increased comorbidities (eg, heart failure, lung disease), greater mortality (3.6% vs 0.8%, P < .001), and complication rates compared with patients without cirrhosis. Readmission rates and longer hospital stays also were observed in patients with cirrhosis. A total of 52% of NCPs underwent abdominal repair compared with 62% of patients with cirrhosis who received perineal repair; greater complication rates were observed for abdominal repairs in both groups (patients without cirrhosis 11.4%, patients with cirrhosis 25%). Predictors of greater complication rates in patients with cirrhosis included abdominal repair (odds ratio 2.7, 95% confidence interval 1.4-5, P = .002) and presence of ascites (odds ratio 4.6, 95% confidence interval 1.1-20, P = .04).

CONCLUSION

Overall, abdominal repairs have greater complication rates even when controlling for Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score and presence of ascites. The Delorme procedure had the lowest complication rates. Additional evidence is needed to recommend a preferred surgical approach to rectal prolapse repair in patients with cirrhosis.

Transabdominal levatorplasty technique in laparoscopic mesh rectopexy for rectal prolapse

Rectal prolapse is characterized by a full-thickness intussusception of the rectal wall and is associated with a spectrum of coexisting anatomic abnormalities. We developed the transabdominal levatorplasty technique for laparoscopic rectopexy, inspired by Altemeier's procedure. In this method, following posterior mesorectum dissection, we expose the levator ani muscle just behind the anorectal junction. Horizontal sutures, using nonabsorbable material, are applied to close levator diastasis associated with rectal prolapse. The aim of the transabdominal levatorplasty is to (i) reinforce the pelvic floor, (ii) narrow the anorectal hiatus, and (iii) reconstruct the anorectal angle. We report a novel transabdominal levatorplasty technique during laparoscopic rectopexy for rectal prolapse. The laparoscopic mesh rectopexy with levatorplasty technique was performed in eight cases: six underwent unilateral Orr-Loygue procedure, one modified Wells procedure, and one unilateral Orr-Loygue procedure combined with sacrocolpopexy for uterine prolapse. The median follow-up period was 178 (33-368) days, with no observed recurrences. Six out of seven patients with fecal incontinence experienced symptomatic improvement. Although the sample size is small and the follow-up period is short, this technique has the potential to reduce the recurrence rate and improve functional outcomes, as with levatorplasty of Altemeier's procedure. We believe that this technique may have the potential to become an option for rectal prolapse surgery.

The Predictive Risk Factor of Postoperative Recurrence Following Altemeier's and Delorme's Procedures for Full-thickness Rectal Prolapse: An Analysis of 127 Japanese Patients in a Single Institution

Objectives

We aimed to identify risk factors for postoperative recurrence (PR) after Altemeier's and Delorme's procedures for full-thickness rectal prolapse (FTRP).

Methods

We enrolled 127 patients who underwent Altemeier's and Delorme's procedures for FTRP between April 2008 and September 2021. We divided the 127 patients into recurrence and non-recurrence groups and conducted univariate and multivariate analyses. We used six independent variables: age, body mass index (BMI), history of surgical repair for FTRP, coexistence of prolapse in other organs, poor fixation of the rectum on defecography before surgery, length of the prolapsed rectum, and type of surgical procedure (Altemeier's or Delorme's procedures).

Results

PR developed in 51 (40.1%) patients during a mean follow-up period of 453 (range, 9-3616) days. Comparing the recurrence group (n=51) with the non-recurrence group (n=76), significant difference was observed regarding the coexistence of prolapse in other organs (p=0.017) in the univariate analysis. In the multivariate analysis, significant differences were observed in BMI (OR 1.18, 95% CI 1.030-1.350, p=0.020), coexistence of prolapse in other organs (OR 3.38, 95% CI 1.200-9.500, p=0.021), length of the prolapsed rectum (OR 1.030, 95% CI 1.010-1.060, p=0.015), poor fixity of the rectum on defecography (OR 0.332, 95% CI 0.129-0.852, p=0.022), and surgical procedures (OR 0.192, 95% CI 0.064-0.573, p=0.003).

Conclusions

The study suggested that increasing BMI, coexistence of prolapse in other organs, length of the prolapsed rectum, poor fixation of the rectum on defecography before surgery, and types of surgical procedure might be risk factors of PR after perineal surgery for FTRP.

Durable Approaches to Recurrent Rectal Prolapse Repair May Require Avoidance of Index Procedure

BACKGROUND

Surgical treatment of recurrent rectal prolapse is associated with unique technical challenges, partially determined by the surgical approach used for the index operation. Success rates are variable, and data to determine the best approach in patients with recurring prolapse are lacking.

OBJECTIVE

The study aimed to assess current surgical approaches to patients with prior rectal prolapse repairs and to compare short-term outcomes of de novo and redo procedures, including recurrence of rectal prolapse.

DESIGN

Retrospective analysis of a prospective database.

SETTINGS

The Multicenter Pelvic Floor Disorders Consortium Prospective Quality Improvement database. De-identified surgeons at more than 25 sites (81% high volume) self-reported patient demographics, prior repairs, symptoms of incontinence and obstructed defecation, and operative details, including history of concomitant repairs and prior prolapse repairs.

PATIENTS

Patients who were offered surgery for full thickness rectal prolapse.

INTERVENTIONS

Incidence and type of repair used for prior rectal prolapse surgery were recorded. Primary and secondary outcomes of index and redo operations were calculated. Patients undergoing rectal prolapse re-repair (redo) were compared with patients undergoing first (de novo) rectal prolapse repair. The incidence of rectal prolapse recurrence in de novo and redo operations was quantified.

OUTCOMES

The primary outcome of rectal prolapse recurrence in de novo and redo settings.

RESULTS

Eighty-nine (19.3%) of 461 patients underwent redo rectal prolapse repair. On short-term follow-up, redo patients had prolapse recurrence rates similar to those undergoing de novo repair. However, patients undergoing redo procedures rarely had the same operation as their index procedure.

LIMITATIONS

Self-reported, de-identified data.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that recurrent rectal prolapse surgery is feasible and can offer adequate rates of rectal prolapse durability in the short term but may argue for a change in surgical approach for redo procedures when clinically feasible. See Video Abstract .

LOS ENFOQUES DURADEROS PARA LA REPARACIN DEL PROLAPSO RECTAL RECURRENTE PUEDEN REQUERIR EVITAR EL PROCEDIMIENTO NDICE

ANTECEDENTES:El tratamiento quirúrgico del prolapso rectal recurrente se asocia con desafíos técnicos únicos, determinados en parte por el abordaje quirúrgico utilizado para la operación inicial. Las tasas de éxito son variables y faltan datos para determinar el mejor abordaje en pacientes con prolapso recurrente.OBJETIVO:Evaluar los enfoques quirúrgicos actuales para pacientes con reparaciones previas de prolapso rectal y comparar los resultados a corto plazo de los procedimientos de novo y rehacer, incluida la recurrencia del prolapso rectal.DISEÑO:Análisis retrospectivo de una base de datos prospectiva.AJUSTE:Base de datos de mejora prospectiva de la calidad del Consorcio multicéntrico de trastornos del suelo pélvico. Cirujanos no identificados en más de 25 sitios (81% de alto volumen) informaron datos demográficos de los pacientes, reparaciones previas, síntomas de incontinencia y defecación obstruida y detalles operativos, incluido el historial de reparaciones concomitantes y reparaciones previas de prolapso.INTERVENCIONES:Se registro la incidencia y el tipo de reparación utilizada para la cirugía de prolapso rectal previa. Se calcularon los resultados primarios y secundarios de las operaciones de índice y reoperacion. Se compararon los pacientes sometidos a una nueva reparación (reoperacion) de prolapso rectal con pacientes sometidos a una primera reparación (de novo) de prolapso rectal. Se cuantificó la incidencia de recurrencia del prolapso rectal en operaciones de novo y rehacer.RESULTADOS:El resultado primario de recurrencia del prolapso rectal en entornos de novo y redo. Ochenta y nueve (19,3%) de 461 pacientes se sometieron a una nueva reparación del prolapso rectal. En el seguimiento a corto plazo, los pacientes reoperados tuvieron tasas de recurrencia de prolapso similares a los de los sometidos a reparación de novo. Sin embargo, los pacientes sometidos a procedimientos de rehacer rara vez tuvieron la misma operación que su procedimiento índice.LIMITACIONES:Datos no identificados y autoinformados.CONCLUSIONES/DISCUSIÓN:Nuestros resultados sugieren que la cirugía de prolapso rectal recurrente es factible y puede ofrecer tasas adecuadas de durabilidad del prolapso rectal en el corto plazo, pero puede abogar por un cambio en el enfoque quirúrgico para rehacer los procedimientos cuando sea clínicamente factible. (Traducción-Dr. Mauricio Santamaria ).

Analysis of factors that indicated surgery in 400 patients submitted to a complete diagnostic workup for obstructed defecation syndrome and rectal prolapse using a supervised machine learning algorithm

BACKGROUND

Patient selection is extremely important in obstructed defecation syndrome (ODS) and rectal prolapse (RP) surgery. This study assessed factors that guided the indications for ODS and RP surgery and their specific role in our decision-making process using a machine learning approach.

METHODS

This is a retrospective analysis of a long-term prospective observational study on female patients reporting symptoms of ODS who underwent a complete diagnostic workup from January 2010 to December 2021 at an academic tertiary referral center. Clinical, defecographic, and other functional tests data were assessed. A supervised machine learning algorithm using a classification tree model was performed and tested.

RESULTS

A total of 400 patients were included. The factors associated with a significantly higher probability of undergoing surgery were follows: as symptoms, perineal splinting, anal or vaginal self-digitations, sensation of external RP, episodes of fecal incontinence and soiling; as physical examination features, evidence of internal and external RP, rectocele, enterocele, or anterior/middle pelvic organs prolapse; as defecographic findings, intra-anal and external RP, rectocele, incomplete rectocele emptying, enterocele, cystocele, and colpo-hysterocele. Surgery was less indicated in patients with dyssynergia, severe anxiety and depression. All these factors were included in a supervised machine learning algorithm. The model showed high accuracy on the test dataset (79%, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Symptoms assessment and physical examination proved to be fundamental, but other functional tests should also be considered. By adopting a machine learning model in further ODS and RP centers, indications for surgery could be more easily and reliably identified and shared.

Resolution of symptoms of rectal prolapse after repair of vaginal prolapse: A report of two cases

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a very common problem that can affect any aspect of the pelvic floor. Often, vaginal and rectal prolapse occur simultaneously. Prior case reports have suggested resolution of symptoms of rectal prolapse in those with concomitant rectal and vaginal prolapse; however, the overall body of evidence is limited. We present the cases of two patients who had complete resolution of their symptoms of rectal prolapse after repair of a concomitant vaginal prolapse. Both patients underwent a traditional rectocele repair and perineoplasty, and subsequently reported complete resolution of their symptoms of rectal prolapse, which persisted at their six-month post-operative visits. The second patient ultimately canceled a previously scheduled rectopexy with colorectal surgery. Perhaps a rectocele repair with perineoplasty is limiting rectal mobility, and therefore eliminating its ability to prolapse or intussuscept and cause bothersome symptoms. We suggest that those with concomitant vaginal and rectal prolapse desiring corrective surgery first undergo a less invasive vaginal repair. Post-operative re-evaluation of the symptoms rectal prolapse might then demonstrate that a more invasive rectal prolapse repair, which may involve a colon resection and prolonged hospital stay, was not in fact needed. Further prospective and randomized study is needed to determine the long-term outcomes of concomitant rectal and vaginal prolapse in those who first undergo a vaginal repair.

Clinical, endoscopic, pathological characteristics and management of cap polyposis: experience from a Tertiary Hospital in China

Background and aims

Cap polyposis (CP) is a rare kind of benign disease, and the majority of previously published relevant articles involve a small number of patients. Hence, we summarized our experience to contribute additional data, hoping to raise awareness of this disease.

Methods

From 1 January 2017 to 1 November 2021, consecutive patients diagnosed with CP were retrospectively reviewed. Their medical histories, and laboratory, imaging, endoscopic, and pathology results were analyzed. We made telephone calls to the patients and searched for the information in our electronic medical records to obtain the follow-up results.

Results

Forty-one patients were chosen for analysis. The median age of the patients was 20 years old, and 90.24% (37 patients) of the patients were male. The majority of the patients presented with hematochezia. The rectum was the most commonly affected site, and the Helicobacter pylori infection rate was high. There were multiple and combined treatments for these patients. These treatments can be divided into 3 main categories: medical therapy, endotherapy and surgery. Medical therapy helped to diminish the size of but the polyps were difficult to resolve; however, the patients' symptoms could be diminished. Twenty-three patients underwent surgical resection, and 12 patients received endotherapy. We further compared the two methods of polyp resection. Both endotherapy and surgery were safe, and the recurrence risk was not significantly different between the two kinds of therapy (p = 0.321).

Conclusion

The clinical improvement of medical treatments was not satisfactory, and endotherapy or surgical resection could remove the polyposis and provide temporary relief, but the recurrence rates were high.

An examination of rectal prolapse surgery patients' quality of life and symptoms using patient-reported outcome instruments: A prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

We measured changes in self-reported health and symptoms attributable to rectal prolapse surgery using patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures.

METHODS

A prospectively recruited cohort of patients scheduled for rectal prolapse repair in Vancouver, Canada between 2013 and 2021 were surveyed before and 6-months after surgery using seven PROs: the EuroQol Five-Dimension Instrument (EQ-5D-5L), Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7), Pain Intensity, Interference with Enjoyment of Life and General Activity (PEG), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), Fecal Incontinence Severity Index (FISI), Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI), and the Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life Scale (FIQL).

RESULTS

We included 46 participants who reported improvements in health status (EQ-5D-5L; p ​< ​0.01), pain interference (PEG; p ​< ​0.01), depressive symptoms (PHQ-9; p ​= ​0.01), fecal incontinence severity (FISI; p ​< ​0.01), gastrointestinal quality of life (GIQLI; p ​< ​0.01), and fecal incontinence quality of life (FIQL) related to lifestyle (p ​= ​0.02), coping and behaviour (p ​= ​0.02) and depression and self-perception (p ​= ​0.01).

CONCLUSION

Surgical repair of rectal prolapse improved patients' quality of life with meaningful improvements in fecal incontinence severity and pain, and symptom interference with daily activities.

Comparative study of laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy versus perineal stapler resection for external full-thickness rectal prolapse in elderly patients: enhanced outcomes and reduced recurrence rates-a retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

In elderly patients with external full-thickness rectal prolapse (EFTRP), the exact differences in postoperative recurrence and functional outcomes between laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy (LVMR) and perineal stapler resection (PSR) have not yet been investigated.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective multicenter study on 330 elderly patients divided into LVMR group (n = 250) and PSR (n = 80) from April 2012 to April 2019. Patients were evaluated before and after surgery by Wexner incontinence scale, Altomare constipation scale, and patient satisfaction questionnaire. The primary outcomes were incidence and risk factors for EFTRP recurrence. Secondary outcomes were postoperative incontinence, constipation, and patient satisfaction.

RESULTS

LVMR was associated with fewer postoperative complications (p < 0.001), lower prolapse recurrence (p < 0.001), lower Wexner incontinence score (p = 0.03), and lower Altomare's score (p = 0.047). Furthermore, LVMR demonstrated a significantly higher surgery-recurrence interval (p < 0.001), incontinence improvement (p = 0.019), and patient satisfaction (p < 0.001) than PSR. Three and 13 patients developed new symptoms in LVMR and PSR, respectively. The predictors for prolapse recurrence were LVMR (associated with 93% risk reduction of recurrence, OR 0.067, 95% CI 0.03-0.347, p = 0.001), symptom duration (prolonged duration was associated with an increased risk of recurrence, OR 1.131, 95% CI 1.036-1.236, p = 0.006), and length of prolapse (increased length was associated with a high recurrence risk (OR = 1.407, 95% CI = 1.197-1.655, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

LVMR is safe for EFTRP treatment in elderly patients with low recurrence, and improved postoperative functional outcomes.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinical Trial.gov (NCT05915936), retrospectively registered on June 14, 2023.

Mesh Rectopexy or Resection Rectopexy for Rectal Prolapse; Is There a Gold Standard Method: A Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis and Trial Sequential Analysis

(1) Background: Rectal prolapse is a benign condition that mainly affects females and the elderly. The most common symptoms are constipation and incontinence. The treatment of choice is surgical, but so far, there has been no gold standard method. The aim of this study is to compare the two most common intrabdominal procedures utilized for treating rectal prolapse: the resection rectopexy and the mesh rectopexy. (2) Methods: In this study, we conducted a thorough systematic review and meta-analysis of the available literature and compared the two different approaches regarding their complication rate, recurrence rate, and improvement of symptoms rate. (3) Results: No statistically significant difference between the two methods was found regarding the operating time, the length of stay, the overall complication rate, the surgical site infection rate, the cardiopulmonary complication rate, the improvement in constipation and incontinence rates, and the recurrence rate. (4) Conclusions: Our study revealed that mesh rectopexy and resection rectopexy for rectal prolapse have similar short- and long-term outcomes. As a result, the decision for the procedure used should be individualized and based on the surgeon's preference and expertise.

Sigmoido-rectal intussusception anastomosis in the Altemeier procedure for complete rectal prolapse: preliminary results of a new technique

Purpose

Our research introduces an innovative surgical approach, combining the Altemeier Procedure with Sigmoido-rectal Intussusception Anastomosis, effectively reducing recurrence, minimizing complications, and improving postoperative anal function in rectal prolapse patients.

Materials and methods

This retrospective study, conducted at tertiary referral hospitals including Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine's Affiliated Hospital, Linyi People's Hospital, and Pingyi People's Hospital, examined data from patients undergoing conventional Altemeier surgery or Altemeier combined with Sigmoido-rectal Intussusception Anastomosis. Analyzing hospitalization and follow-up data from January 2009 to December 2022, the study focused on prolapse recurrence, complications, and anal function as primary outcome indicators across these three study centers.

Results

In the study, both groups had an average follow-up of (12.5 ± 2.41) months, and only two traditional group patients experienced mortality. Recurrence rates significantly differed, with 26.47% in the traditional group and 1.54% in the modified group (P < 0.001). The modified group showed no perioperative anastomotic dehiscence, contrasting with a 13.24% occurrence in the conventional group (P = 0.003). Primary complications in the modified group included anastomotic hemorrhage, with rates of 17.65% and 6.15% in the traditional and modified groups, respectively (P = 0.077). At 12 months postoperatively, both groups improved in anal manometry parameters and the Wexner anal incontinence score. Resting pressure was significantly lower in the traditional group (32.50 ± 1.76 mmHg) than the modified group (33.24 ± 2.06 mmHg) (P = 0.027), while the extrusion pressure was higher in the modified group (64.78 ± 1.55 mmHg) than the traditional group (62.85 ± 2.30 mmHg) (P < 0.001). The Wexner anal incontinence score was significantly lower in the modified group (2.69 ± 1.65) than the traditional group (3.69 ± 1.58, P = 0.001).

Conclusion

This retrospective study affirms that adding Sigmoido-rectal Intussusception Anastomosis to the Altemeier procedure reduces recurrence and complications. While both approaches enhance postoperative anal function in complete rectal prolapse patients, the combined method, particularly with Sigmoido-rectal Intussusception Anastomosis, proves more effective.

Ventral mesh rectopexy for recurrent rectal prolapse after Altemeier perineal proctosigmoidectomy: feasibility and outcomes

PURPOSE

Recurrence of rectal prolapse following the Altemeier procedure is reported with rates up to 40%. The optimal surgical management of recurrences has limited data available. Ventral mesh rectopexy (VMR) is a favored procedure for primary rectal prolapse, but its role in managing recurrences after Altemeier is unclear. VMR for recurrent prolapse involves implanting the mesh on the colon, which has a thinner wall, more active peristalsis, no mesorectum, less peritoneum available for covering the mesh, and potential diverticula. These factors can affect mesh-related complications such as erosion, migration, or infection. This study assessed the feasibility and perioperative outcomes of VMR for recurrent rectal prolapse after the Altemeier procedure.

METHODS

We queried our prospectively maintained database between 01/01/2008 and 06/30/2022 for patients who had experienced a recurrence of full-thickness rectal prolapse following Altemeier's perineal proctosigmoidectomy and subsequently underwent ventral mesh rectopexy.

RESULTS

Ten women with a median age of 67 years (range 61) and a median BMI of 27.8 kg/m2 (range 9) were included. Five (50%) had only one Altemeier, and five (50%) had multiple rectal prolapse surgeries, including Altemeier before VMR. No mesh-related complications occurred during a 65-month (range 165) median follow-up period. Three patients (30%) experienced minor postoperative complications unrelated to the mesh. Long-term complications were chronic abdominal pain and incisional hernia in one patient, respectively. One out of five (20%) patients with only one previous prolapse repair had a recurrence, while all patients (100%) with multiple prior repairs recurred.

CONCLUSION

Mesh implantation on the colon is possible without adverse reactions. However, high recurrence rates in patients with multiple previous surgeries raise doubts about using VMR for secondary or tertiary recurrences.

Delorme's vs. Altemeier's in the management of rectal procidentia: systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Rectal prolapse is a distressing condition for patients and no consensus exists on optimal surgical management. We compared outcomes of two common perineal operations (Delorme's and Altemeier's) used in the treatment of rectal prolapse.

METHODS

A systematic search of multiple electronic databases was conducted. Peri- and post-operative outcomes following Delorme's and Altemeier's procedures were extracted. Primary outcomes included recurrence rate, anastomotic dehiscence rate and mortality rate. The secondary outcomes were total operative time, volume of blood loss, length of hospital stay and coloanal anastomotic stricture formation. Revman 5.3 was used to perform all statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Ten studies with 605 patients were selected; 286 underwent Altemeier's procedure (standalone), 39 had Altemeier's with plasty (perineoplasty or levatoroplasty), and 280 had Delorme's. Recurrence rate [OR: 0.66; 95% CI [0.44-0.99], P = 0.05] was significantly lower and anastomotic dehiscence [RD: 0.05; 95% CI [0.00-0.09], P = 0.03] was significantly higher in the Altemeier's group. However, sub group analysis of Altemeier's with plasty failed to show significant differences in these outcomes compared with the Delorme's procedure. Length of hospital stay was significantly more following an Altemeier's operation compared with Delorme's [MD: 3.05, 95% CI [0.95 - 5.51], P = 0.004]. No significant difference was found in total operative time, intra-operative blood loss, coloanal anastomotic stricture formation and mortality rates between the two approaches.

CONCLUSIONS

A direct comparison of two common perineal procedures used in the treatment of rectal prolapse demonstrated that the Altemeier's approach was associated with better outcomes. Future, well-designed high quality RCTs with long-term follow up are needed to corroborate our findings.

The international variability of surgery for rectal prolapse

Objective

There is a lack of consensus regarding the optimal approach for patients with full-thickness rectal prolapse. The aim of this international survey was to assess the patterns in treatment of rectal prolapse.

Design

A 23-question survey was distributed to the Pelvic Floor Consortium of the American Society of Colorectal Surgeons, the Colorectal Surgical Society of Australia and New Zealand, and the Pelvic Floor Society. Questions pertained to surgeon and practice demographics, preoperative evaluation, procedural preferences, and educational needs.

Setting

Electronic survey distributed to colorectal surgeons of diverse practice settings.

Participants

249 colorectal surgeons responded to the survey, 65% of which were male. There was wide variability in age, years in practice, and practice setting.

Main outcome measures

Responses to questions regarding preoperative workup preferences and clinical scenarios.

Results

In preoperative evaluation, 19% would perform anorectal physiology testing and 70% would evaluate for concomitant pelvic organ prolapse. In a healthy patient, 90% would perform a minimally invasive abdominal approach, including ventral rectopexy (56%), suture rectopexy (31%), mesh rectopexy (6%) and resection rectopexy (5%). In terms of ventral rectopexy, surgeons in the Americas preferred a synthetic mesh (61.9% vs 38.1%, p=0.59) whereas surgeons from Australasia preferred biologic grafts (75% vs 25%, p<0.01). In an older patient with comorbidities 81% would perform a perineal approach. Procedure preference (Delormes vs Altmeier) varied according to location (Australasia, 85.9% vs 14.1%; Europe, 75.3% vs 24.7%; Americas, 14.1% vs 85.9%). Most participants were interested in education regarding surgical approaches, however there is wide variability in preferred methods.

Conclusion

There is significant variability in the preoperative evaluation and surgery performed for rectal prolapse. Given the lack of consensus, it is not surprising that most surgeons desire further education on the topic.

[Imaging of the pelvic floor (MR defecography) : The surgeon's perspective]

BACKGROUND

Magnetic resonance defecography (MRD) plays a central role in diagnosing pelvic floor functional disorders by visualizing the entire pelvic floor along with pelvic organs and providing functional assessment of the defecation process. A shared understanding between radiology and surgery regarding indications and interpretation of findings is crucial for optimal utilization of MRD.

OBJECTIVES

This review aims to explain the indications for MRD from a surgical perspective and elucidate the significance of radiological findings for treatment. It intends to clarify for which symptoms MRD is appropriate and which criteria should be followed for standardized results. This is prerequisite to develop interdisciplinary therapeutic approaches.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was conducted, including current consensus guidelines.

RESULTS

MRD can provide relevant findings in the diagnosis of fecal incontinence and obstructed defecation syndrome, particularly in cases of pelvic floor descent, enterocele, intussusception, and pelvic floor dyssynergia. However, rectocele findings in MRD should be interpreted with caution in order to avoid overdiagnosis.

CONCLUSION

MRD findings should never be considered in isolation but rather in conjunction with patient history, clinical examination, and symptomatology since morphology and functional complaints may not always correlate, and there is wide variance of normal values. Interdisciplinary interpretation of MRD results involving radiology, surgery, gynecology, and urology, preferably in the context of pelvic floor conferences, is recommended.

A network meta-analysis of surgical treatments of complete rectal prolapse

PURPOSE

Surgical treatment of complete rectal prolapse can be undertaken via an abdominal or a perineal approach. The present network meta-analysis aimed to compare the outcomes of different abdominal and perineal procedures for rectal prolapse in terms of recurrence, complications, and improvement in fecal incontinence (FI).

METHODS

A PRISMA-compliant systematic review of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science was conducted. Randomized clinical trials comparing two or more procedures for the treatment of complete rectal prolapse were included. The risk of bias was assessed using the ROB-2 tool. The main outcomes were recurrence of full-thickness rectal prolapse, complications, operation time, and improvement in FI.

RESULTS

Nine randomized controlled trials with 728 patients were included. The follow-up ranged between 12 and 47 months. Posterior mesh rectopexy had significantly lower odds of recurrence than did the Altemeier procedure (logOR, - 12.75;  95% credible intervals, - 40.91, - 1.75), Delorme procedure (- 13.10; - 41.26, - 2.09), resection rectopexy (- 11.98; - 41.36, - 0.19), sponge rectopexy (- 13.19; - 42.87, - 0.54), and sutured rectopexy (- 13.12; - 42.58, - 1.50), but similar odds to ventral mesh rectopexy (- 12.09; - 41.7, 0.03). Differences among the procedures in complications, operation time, and improvement in FI were not significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Posterior mesh rectopexy ranked best with the lowest recurrence while perineal procedures ranked worst with the highest recurrence rates.

The patient with obstructed defecatory symptoms: Management differs considerably between physicians and surgeons

BACKGROUND

Patients with obstructed defecatory symptoms (ODS) are commonly referred to either gastroenterologists (GE) or colorectal surgeons (CS). Further management of these patients may be impacted by this choice of referral.

METHODS

An online survey of specialist practice was disseminated to GE and CS in Australia and New Zealand. A case vignette of a patient presenting with ODS was described, with multiple subsequent scenarios designed to delineate the responder's preferred approach to management of this patient.

KEY RESULTS

A total of 107 responders participated in the study, 62 CS and 45 GE. For a female patient with ODS not responding to pharmacological treatment, GE were more likely than CS to refer patients for anorectal manometry, while CS were more likely to refer for dynamic imaging. A quarter of CS and GE referred patients directly to pelvic floor physiotherapy, without any pre-treatment testing. Knowing the result of dynamic imaging, especially if a rectocele was demonstrated, substantially influenced management for both of the specialties: GE became more likely to refer the patients for CS consultation and less likely to refer directly for biofeedback or physiotherapy and CS were more likely to opt for an operative pathway over conservative management than they were prior to knowledge of the imaging findings. The majority (>75%) of GE and CS did not find it necessary to obtain a gynecological consultation, even in the presence of a rectocele.

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

Practice variation across medical specialties affects diagnostic and management recommendations for patients with ODS, impacting treatment pathways. Our findings provide an incentive toward establishing interdisciplinary, uniform, management guidelines.

Current diagnostic tools and treatment modalities for rectal prolapse

Rectal prolapse is a circumferential, full-thickness protrusion of the rectum through the anus. It is a rare condition, and only affects 0.5% of the general population. Multiple treatment modalities have been described, which have changed significantly over time. Particularly in the last decade, laparoscopic and robotic surgical approaches with different mobilization techniques, combined with medical therapies, have been widely implemented. Because patients have presented with a wide range of complaints (ranging from abdominal discomfort to incomplete bowel evacuation, mucus discharge, constipation, diarrhea, and fecal incontinence), understanding the extent of complaints and ruling out differential diagnoses are essential for choosing a tailored surgical procedure. It is crucial to assess these additional symptoms and their severities using preoperative scoring systems. Additionally, radiological and physiological evaluations may explain some vague symptoms and reveal concomitant pelvic disorders. However, there is no consensus on or standardization of the optimal extent of dissection, type of procedure, and materials used for rectal fixation; this makes providing maximum benefits to patients with minimal complications difficult. Even recent publications and systematic reviews have not recommended the most appropriate treatment options. This review explains the appropriate diagnostic tools for different conditions and summarizes the current treatment approaches based on existing literature and expert opinions.

A comparative study between transanal and transabdominal approaches in treatment of complete rectal prolapse

Formulating clear guidelines for the most reliable treatment methods for complete rectal prolapse appears challenging. The authors designed this study to compare the results according to the approaches for female complete rectal prolapse and to suggest a more effective method. The transanal and abdominal groups showed differences in operating time, hospital stay, and recurrence rate. However, both groups demonstrated improvement in postoperative functional evaluation.

PURPOSE

There is a wide variety of surgical methods to treat rectal prolapse; however, to date, no clear agreement exists regarding the most effective surgical method. This study was designed to compare the results according to the surgical approach for complete rectal prolapse in women.

METHODS

This study was conducted from March 2016 to February 2021 on female patients with rectal prolapse who underwent surgery. First, all patients were classified into mucosal and complete layer groups to confirm the difference in results between the two groups, and only complete layer prolapse patients were divided into transanal and abdominal approaches to compare parameters and functional outcomes in each group.

RESULTS

A total of 180 patients were included, with an average age of 71.7 years and 102 complete prolapses. The complete layer group was found to have more abdominal access, longer operating time, and higher recurrence rates compared to the mucosal layer group. (p<0.001) When targeting only the complete layer patients, there were 65 patients with the transanal and 37 with the abdominal (laparoscopic) approaches. The abdominal approach group had a longer operating time and hospital stay (p<0.001, respectively) and lower recurrence rate than the transanal group (transanal vs. abdominal, 38% vs. 10.8%, p=0.003), while the Wexner constipation and incontinence scores showed improved results in both groups.

CONCLUSION

Although operating time and hospitalization period were shorter in the transanal group, laparoscopic abdominal surgery is a procedure that can reduce the recurrent rate for complete rectal prolapse.

Unusual presentation of colon cancer as rectal prolapse in middle-aged male

Rectal prolapse is typically a benign idiopathic condition. Rarely, rectal prolapse can be due to or associated with colorectal carcinoma. Here we present a middle-aged gentleman with no previous medical or surgical history, who presented with rectal prolapse secondary to sigmoid adenocarcinoma.

Outcomes for men undergoing rectal prolapse surgery - a systematic review

AIM

Rectal prolapse is considered rare in men but the prevalence can be high in certain populations. It is unclear which surgical approach offers lower recurrence rates and better functional outcomes in men. The aim of this work was to determine the recurrence rates, complications and functional outcomes after prolapse surgery in men.

METHOD

The MEDLINE, EMBASE and Scopus databases were systematically searched to identify studies on outcomes following surgical management of full-thickness rectal prolapse in men (over 18 years of age) published between 1951 and September 2022. Outcomes of interest included recurrence rate after surgery, bowel function, urinary function, sexual function and postoperative complications.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight studies involving 1751 men were included. Two papers focused exclusively on men. Twelve studies employed a mixture of abdominal approaches, ten employed perineal approaches and six compared both. The recurrence rate varied across studies, ranging from 0% to 34%. Sexual and urinary function were poorly reported, but the incidence of dysfunction appears low.

CONCLUSION

The outcomes of rectal prolapse surgery in men are poorly studied with small sample sizes and variable outcomes reported. There is insufficient evidence to recommend a specific repair approach based on the recurrence rate and functional outcomes. Further studies are required to identify the optimal surgical approach for rectal prolapse in men.

Complications of Mesh Sacrocolpopexy and Rectopexy: Imaging Review

Sacrocolpopexy and rectopexy are commonly used surgical options for treatment of patients with pelvic organ and rectal prolapse, respectively. These procedures involve surgical fixation of the vaginal vault or the rectum to the sacral promontory with mesh material and can be performed independently of each other or in a combined fashion and by using an open abdominal approach or laparoscopy with or without robotic assistance. Radiologists can be particularly helpful in cases where patients' surgical histories are unclear by identifying normal sacrocolpopexy or rectopexy mesh material and any associated complications. Acute complications such as bleeding or urinary tract injury or stricture are generally evaluated with CT. More chronic complications such as mesh extrusion or exposure with or without fistulization to surrounding structures are generally evaluated with MRI. Other complications can have a variable time of onset after surgery. Patients with suspected bowel obstruction are generally evaluated with CT. Those with suspected infection, abscess formation, and discitis or osteomyelitis may be evaluated with MRI, although CT evaluation may be appropriate in certain scenarios. The authors review the sacrocolpopexy and rectopexy surgical techniques, discuss appropriate imaging protocols for evaluation of patients with suspected complications, and illustrate the normal appearance and common complications of these procedures. ^© RSNA, 2023 Quiz questions for this article are available in the supplemental material.

Colonoscopic findings in patients with pelvic floor dysfunction

BACKGROUNDY

Colonoscopy is often performed in the initial workup of pelvic floor dysfunction, even in the absence of red flag symptoms. Current guidelines suggest colonoscopy is only required in the presence of rectal bleeding, diarrhoea or change in bowel habit. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of significant pathology found at colonoscopy in patients with pelvic floor dysfunction.

METHODS

Retrospective chart review was performed on all patients presenting to a functional colorectal outpatient clinic between May 2018 and August 2019. Information was collected on presenting symptoms, whether colonoscopy had been performed within 5 years, quality of bowel preparation, withdrawal time, number of polyps detected, histology, presence of diverticular disease, colorectal malignancy, inflammatory bowel disease, solitary rectal ulcer or rectal prolapse.

RESULTS

There were 260 patients seen within the study period, of which 67% had undergone recent colonoscopy within the last 5 years. The mean age was 53 and 219 (84%) patients were female. Average withdrawal time was 13 min. Polyps were found in 48.7% and adenomas in 32.4% of all colonoscopies. The adenoma detection rate was 32.7%. None of the colonoscopies found evidence of malignancy. A new diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease was discovered in two patients.

CONCLUSION

There was low rates of serious pathology such as malignancy or inflammatory bowel disease in patients referred to a functional clinic. However, colonoscopy is still useful in workup of pelvic floor dysfunction, as many patients have erratic bowel habits or vague symptoms, and will have adenomas found.

Tunneling of Mesh during Ventral Rectopexy: Technical Aspects and Long-Term Functional Results

Avoiding the extensive damage of pelvic structures during ventral rectopexy could minimize secondary disfunctions. The objective of our observational study is to assess the safety and functional efficacy of a modified ventral rectopexy. In the modified ventral rectopexy, a retroperitoneal tunnel was created along the right side of rectum, connecting two peritoneal mini-incisions at the Douglas pouch and sacral promontory. The proximal edge of a polypropylene mesh, sutured over the ventral rectum, was pulled up through the retroperitoneal tunnel and fixed to the sacral promontory. In all patients, radiopaque clips were placed on the mesh, making it radiographically "visible". Before surgery and at follow up visits, Altomare, Longo, CCSS, PAC-SYM, and CCFI scores were collected. From March 2010 to September 2021, 117 patients underwent VR. Modified ventral rectopexy was performed in 65 patients, while the standard ventral rectopexy was performed in 52 patients. The open approach was used in 97 cases (55 and 42 patients in modified and standard VR, respectively), while MI surgery was used in 20 cases (10 and 10 patients in modified and standard VR, respectively). A slightly shorter operative time and hospital stay were observed following modified ventral rectopexy (though this was not statistically significant). Similar overall complication rates were registered in the modified vs. standard ventral rectopexies (4.6% vs. 5.8%, p = 0.779). At follow-up, the Longo score (14.0 ± 8.6 vs. 11.0 ± 8.2, p = 0.042) and "delta" values of Altomare (9.2 ± 6.1 vs. 5.9 ± 6.3, p = 0.008) and CCSS (8.4 ± 6.3 vs. 6.1 ± 6.1, p = 0.037) scores were significantly improved in the modified ventral rectopexy group. A similar occurrence of symptoms recurrence was diagnosed in the two groups. Radiopaque clips helped to accurately diagnose mesh detachment/dislocation. The proposed modified VR seems to be feasible and safe. Marking the mesh intraoperatively seems useful.

Does Concomitant Pelvic Organ Prolapse Repair at the Time of Rectopexy Impact Rectal Prolapse Recurrence Rates? A Retrospective Review of the Prospectively Collected Pelvic Floor Disorders Consortium Quality Improvement Database Pilot

BACKGROUND

Pelvic organ prolapse is reported in 30% of women presenting with rectal prolapse. Combined repair is a viable option to avoid the need for future pelvic floor interventions. However, the added impact of adding a modicum of middle compartment suspension by closing the pouch of Douglas during a rectal prolapse repair has not been studied.

OBJECTIVE

The study aimed to assess the impact of middle compartment suspension on the durability of rectal prolapse repair. We also aimed to determine whether adding some form of pouch of Douglas closure to achieve middle compartment suspension leads to any improvements in the rates or severity of postoperative constipation or in the rates or severity of postoperative fecal incontinence.

DESIGN

This study was a retrospective analysis of a multicenter prospective database.

SETTING

Data were analyzed from the Pelvic Floor Disorders Consortium Quality Improvement in Rectal Prolapse Surgery database. Deidentified surgeons at more than 20 sites (75% academic, 81% high volume) self-reported patient demographics, previous repairs, symptoms of fecal incontinence and obstructed defecation, and operative details, including addition of concomitant gynecologic repairs, use of mesh, posterior or ventral dissection, and sigmoidectomy.

PATIENTS

Patients were included who underwent abdominal repair for rectal prolapse.

INTERVENTIONS

Abdominal rectopexy procedures with and without middle compartment suspension were compared. Middle compartment suspension was defined as excision and closure of the pouch of Douglas with some degree of colpopexy or culdoplasty.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome of prolapse recurrence and secondary outcomes of incontinence and constipation were calculated via univariate and multivariable regression by comparing those who underwent rectopexy with and without middle compartment suspension.

RESULTS

Of the 198 patients (98% female, age 60.2 ± 15.6 years) who underwent abdominal repairs (59% robotic), 138 patients (70%) underwent some concomitant middle compartment suspension. Patients who had an added middle compartment suspension seemed to have lower early rectal prolapse recurrences. On multivariable regression to control for age, previous repairs, and the use of mesh, addition of some form of pouch of Douglas repair was associated with a decrease in short-term recurrences.

LIMITATIONS

Our data need to be interpreted cautiously. Future studies are critically needed to further explore this observation, with an a priori, prospective definition of middle compartment suspension, validated measurement of concomitant pathology, and longer follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that some middle compartment suspension at the time of rectal prolapse repair may improve short-term durability of rectal prolapse repair. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/C30 .

LA REPARACIN CONCOMITANTE DEL PROLAPSO DE RGANOS PLVICOS EN EL MOMENTO DE LA RECTOPEXIA AFECTA LAS TASAS DE RECURRENCIA DEL PROLAPSO RECTAL UNA REVISIN RETROSPECTIVA DE UNA BASE DE DATOS RECOPILADA PROSPECTIVAMENTE DEL CONSORCIO SOBRE LA MEJORA DE LA CALIDAD DE TRASTORNOS DEL PISO PLVICO

ANTECEDENTES:El prolapso de órganos pélvicos se informa en el 30 % de las mujeres que presentan prolapso rectal y la reparación combinada es una opción viable para evitar la necesidad de futuras intervenciones del suelo pélvico. Sin embargo, no se ha estudiado el impacto adicional de agregar un mínimo de suspensión del compartimento medio cerrando el fonde de saco de Douglas durante una reparación de prolapso rectal.OBJETIVO:Nuestro objetivo fue evaluar el impacto de la suspensión del compartimento medio con respecto a la durabilidad de la reparación del prolapso rectal. Quisimos de igual manera determinar si el agregado de algún tipo de cierre del fondo de saco de Douglas para lograr la suspensión del compartimento medio conduce a alguna mejora en las tasas o la gravedad del estreñimiento posoperatorio así como en las tasas o la gravedad de la incontinencia fecal posoperatoria.DISEÑO:Análisis retrospectivo de una base de datos prospectiva.ESCENARIO:Base de datos Multicenter Pelvic Floor Disorders Consortium Prospective Quality Improvement. Cirujanos no identificados en >20 sitios (75% académicos, 81% de alto volumen) datos demográficos de pacientes auto informados, reparaciones previas, síntomas de incontinencia fecal y defecación obstruida, y detalles quirúrgicos, incluida la suma de reparaciones ginecológicas concomitantes, uso de malla, disección anterior o posterior y sigmoidectomía.INTERVENCIONES:Se compararon los procedimientos de rectopexia abdominal con y sin suspensión del compartimento medio). La suspensión del compartimento medio se definió como la escisión y cierre del fondo de saco de Douglas con algún grado de colpopexia o culdoplastia.RESULTADOS:El resultado principal de la recurrencia del prolapso y los resultados secundarios de incontinencia y estreñimiento se calcularon mediante regresión uni y multivariable al comparar los que fueron sometidos a rectopexia con y sin suspensión del compartimento medio.PACIENTES:Pacientes sometidos a reparación abdominal por prolapso rectal.RESULTADOS:De los 198 pacientes (98% mujeres, edad 60,2 ± 15,6 años) sometidas a reparaciones abdominales (59% robótica), 138 (70%) fueron sometidas igualmente y de manera concomitante a alguna suspensión del compartimento medio. Los pacientes a los que se les añadió una suspensión del compartimento medio parecían tener menores recurrencias tempranas del prolapso rectal y, en la regresión multivariable para controlar la edad, las reparaciones previas y el uso de malla, la adición de alguna forma de reparación del fondo de saco de Douglas se asoció con una disminución de las recurrencias a corto plazo.LIMITACIONES:Nuestros datos deben interpretarse con cautela. Se necesitan de manera critica, estudios futuros para explorar más a fondo esta observación, con una definición prospectiva a priori de la suspensión del compartimento medio, una medición validada de la patología concomitante y un seguimiento más prolongado.CONCLUSIONES:Nuestros resultados sugieren que alguna suspensión del compartimento medio en el momento de la reparación del prolapso rectal puede mejorar la durabilidad a corto plazo de la reparación del prolapso rectal. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/C30 . (Traducción-Dr. Osvaldo Gauto ).

Mesh erosion into the rectum after laparoscopic posterior rectopexy: A case report

Introduction

Rectal prolapse typically presents in elderly women with protruding full-thickness rectum from the anus. Rectopexy using mesh is known to be a highly curative treatment for rectal prolapse, however, this procedure carries the risk of severe complication as mesh erosion.

Presentation of case

A 78-year-old woman who had undergone laparoscopic posterior rectopexy 4 years earlier visited the outpatient clinic with a complaint of bloody stool. A colonoscopy and computed tomography revealed that part of the mesh had migrated into the rectal lumen at 8 cm from the anal verge. Based on the above findings, a diagnosis of mesh erosion into the rectum was made. Complete removal of the mesh and tacker with rectal resection was performed. Before rectopexy, the patient had severe fecal incontinence, and her anal sphincter function was decreased, therefore, Permanent colostomy was indicated instead of anastomosis. In the resected specimen, the mesh was folded and placed in the mesenteric fat of the posterior wall of the rectum, with the corner of the edge of the mesh protruding into the inside lumen.

Discussion

Mesh erosion typically occurs when using mesh made of synthetic mesh and non-absorbable threads; it might induce chronic irritation and friction due to mesh shrinkage.

Conclusion

To prevent mesh erosion, it is important to pay attention to the mesh materials used and ensure secure fixation.

•

Mesh erosion into rectum after Laparoscopic posterior rectopexy was reported.

•

Complete removal of the mesh and tacker with rectal resection was needed.

•

Colostomy was made because of existence of severe fecal incontinence, preoperatively.

•

Paying attention to the Shrinkage and secure fixation of synthetic mesh.

OUP accepted manuscript

Background

External rectal prolapse is a relatively rare disease, in which male patients account for a minority. The selection of abdominal repair or perineal repair for male patients has rarely been investigated.

Methods

Fifty-one male patients receiving abdominal repair (laparoscopic ventral rectopexy) or perineal repair (Delorme or Altemeier procedures) at the Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University (Guangzhou, China) between March 2013 and September 2019 were retrospectively analysed. We compared the recurrence, complication rate, post-operative defecation disorder, length of stay, and quality of life between the abdominal and perineal groups.

Results

Of the 51 patients, 45 had a complete follow-up, with a median of 48.5 months (range, 22.8–101.8 months). A total of 35 patients were under age 40 years. The complication rate associated with abdominal repair was less than that associated with perineal repair (0% vs 20.7%, P = 0.031) and the recurrence rate was also lower (9.5% vs 41.7%, P = 0.018). Multivariate analysis showed that perineal repair (odds ratio, 9.827; 95% confidence interval, 1.296–74.50; P = 0.027) might be a risk factor for recurrence. Moreover, only perineal repair significantly improved post-operative constipation status (preoperative vs post-operative, 72.4% vs 25.0%, P = 0.001). There was no reported mortality in either of the groups. No patient's sexual function was affected by the surgery.

Conclusions

Both surgical approaches were safe in men. Compared with perineal repair, the complication rate and recurrence rate for abdominal repair were lower. However, perineal repair was better able to correct constipation.

Trends in the surgical management of rectal prolapse: An Asian experience

BACKGROUND

Posterior compartment pelvic floor prolapse (PCPFP) leads to anatomical distortion and functional impairment. Definitive management involves surgery. Ventral mesh rectopexy (VMR) has gained increasing popularity in the West as it emerges as a durable approach. Existing literature and evidence on safety and efficacy of PCPFP surgery in the Asian population remains sparse. Our study aims to review our institution's experience in surgery for PCPFP.

METHODS

All cases of PCPFP surgery in Singapore General Hospital between 2014 to 2019 were studied.

RESULTS

Eighty-three patients had surgery performed for PCPFP, with the majority (83%) in the last 3 years. Median age was 63 years and 92% were female. Most patients (64%) had obstructive defecation symptoms, while the remaining had fecal incontinence, rectal bleeding, or anal discomfort. Main anatomical indication for surgery was external rectal prolapse (48%). Other indications were rectocele and/or rectal intussusception. The majority (66%) had abdominal rectopexy, while 28 underwent Delorme's procedure. Forty-five of the 50 VMRs were minimally invasive. Patients undergoing rectopexy were observed to be younger. Median length of stay was 3 days. Nine patients had early operative complications of which ileus was most common. Median length of follow-up was 12 months. The majority (93%) had initial symptom satisfaction. Eleven patients had anatomical recurrence with a median length of 9 months to development. There was no significant difference in outcomes between abdominal vs perineal approach, or laparoscopic vs robotic VMR.

CONCLUSION

Surgery for PCPFP has gained acceptance in our Asian institution with good symptom improvement, alongside low morbidity and recurrence.

OUP accepted manuscript

Background

External rectal prolapse (ERP) is a debilitating condition in which surgery plays an important role. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of abdominal approaches (AA) and perineal approaches (PA) to ERP.

Methods

This was a PRISMA-compliant systematic review with meta-analysis. Studies published between 1990 and 2021 were retrieved. The primary endpoint was recurrence at the last available follow-up. Secondary endpoints included factors associated with recurrence and function. All studies were assessed for bias using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale and Cochrane tool.

Results

Fifteen studies involving 1611 patients (AA = 817; PA = 794) treated for ERP were included, three of which were randomized controlled trials (RCTs; 114 patients (AA = 54; PA = 60)). Duration of follow-up ranged from 12 to 82 months. Recurrence in non-randomized studies was 7.7 per cent in AA versus 20.1 per cent in PA (odds ratio (OR) 0.29, 95 per cent confidence interval (c.i.) 0.17 to 0.50; P < 0.001, I² = 45 per cent). In RCTs, there was no significant difference (9.8 per cent versus 16.3 per cent, AA versus PA (OR 0.82, 95 per cent c.i. 0.29 to 2.37; P = 0.72, I² = 0.0 per cent)). Age at surgery and duration of follow-up were risk factors for recurrence. Following AA, the recurrence rates were 10.1 per cent and 6.2 per cent in patients aged 65 years and older and less than 65 years of age, respectively (effect size [e.s.] 7.7, 95 per cent c.i. 4.5 to 11.5). Following PA, rates were 27 per cent and 16.3 per cent (e.s. 20.1, 95 per cent c.i. 13 to 28.2). Extending follow-up to at least 40 months increased the likelihood of recurrence. The median duration of hospital stay was 4.9 days after PA versus 7.2 days after AA. Overall, incontinence was less likely after AA (OR 0.32), but constipation occurred more frequently (OR 1.68). Most studies were retrospective, and several outcomes from RCTs were not consistent with those observed in non-RCTs.

Conclusion

The overall risk of recurrence of ERP appears to be higher with PA versus AA. Incontinence is less frequent after AA but at the cost of increased constipation. Age at surgery and duration of follow-up are associated with increased risk of recurrence, which warrants adequate reporting of future studies on this topic.