Perineal rectosigmoidectomy in the elderly

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.

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.

Anorectal Physiology Testing for Prolapse-What Tests are Necessary?

Rectal prolapse frequently occurs in conjunction with functional and anatomic abnormalities of the bowel and pelvic floor. Prolapse surgery should have as its goal not only to correct the prolapse, but also to improve function to the greatest extent possible. Careful history-taking and physical exam continue to be the surgeon's best tools to put rectal prolapse in its functional context. Physiologic testing augments this and informs surgical decision-making. Defecography can identify concomitant middle compartment prolapse and pelvic floor hernias, potentially targeting patients for urogynecologic consultation or combined repair. Other tests, including manometry, ultrasound, and electrophysiologic testing, may be of utility in select cases. Here, we provide an overview of available testing options and their individual utility in rectal prolapse.

Perineal Rectosigmoidectomy Revisited

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term results of perineal rectosigmoidectomy.

Background

Multiple surgical options are available for rectal prolapse perineal rectosigmoidectomy (Altemeier procedure) is the procedure of choice in elderly patients and those with multiple comorbidities.

Methods

Retrospective review was performed of all patients undergoing perineal rectosigmoidectomy from 1998 to 2008.

Results

Of 128 patients, 125 (98%) were women; with mean age 74 years. Mean operating time was 76 minutes. Hemostasis was achieved using ultrasonic scalpel or clamp and tie technique in equal numbers. Ultrasonic scalpel use resulted in shorter operative times (57.9 versus 94.7 minutes, respectively, P < 0.0001,) and estimated blood loss (18.8 versus 73 mL, respectively, P < 0.0001) compared to clamp-tie technique. Recurrence was seen in 23 (18%) patients. Recurrence was more after a handsewn anastomosis compared to a stapled anastomosis. Complications occurred in 3 patients (2%: 1 experienced major bleeding, 1 experienced perineal abscess, and 1 experienced postoperative ileus).

Conclusions

Perineal rectosigmoidectomy is associated with low morbidity and mortality. In addition, the minimal discomfort to patient, short length of stay and improvement in quality of life makes this a suitable operation for the elderly.

Perineal rectosigmoidectomy for rectal prolapse-the preferred procedure for the unfit elderly patient? 10 years experience from a UK tertiary centre

BACKGROUND

Rectal prolapse is a disease presentation with a prevalence of about 1%, mainly affecting older women. It usually presents with symptoms of rectal mass, rectal bleeding, fecal incontinence or constipation, with patients frequently feeling socially isolated as a result. Perineal rectosigmoidectomy is associated with lesser morbidity and mortality than the abdominal procedure, but with a much higher recurrence rate. Therefore, this technique is mainly suitable for the frail elderly patient. Specific outcomes in an elderly population have been described in only a few studies. We evaluated the morbidity, mortality, recurrence rate and functional results after this procedure related to age.

METHODS

All patients who underwent a perineal rectosigmoidectomy over a 10-year period in two tertiary referral centers were included in the study. American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) grade, pre- and postoperative symptoms, pathology-reported post-fixation specimen length, length of in-patient stay, 30-day morbidity/mortality, and recurrence were measured.

RESULTS

A total of 45 patients underwent a perineal rectosigmoidectomy. Forty-three (95%) were female, with a median age of 82.0 years (IQR 70.5-86.5), ASA grade III and median follow-up of 20 months (range 8.5-45.5 months). Half of the cohort was over 80 years old. Significant symptomatic relief was achieved, predominantly the resolution of rectal mass (8.9% vs. 60.0% preoperatively), fecal incontinence (15.6% vs. 46.7%) and constipation (4.4% vs. 26.7%). The median length of stay was 6 days, while morbidity occurred in 14 patients (31.1%) and recurrence occurred in 6 patients (13%). There were no deaths within 30 days of the procedure and outcomes were comparable in the < 80 and ≥ 80 age group.

CONCLUSIONS

Perineal rectosigmoidectomy is safe for older patients with greater comorbidities resulting in good functional results and is associated with low morbidity and mortality.

Pediatric Rectal Prolapse

Rectal prolapse is a common and self-limiting condition in infancy and early childhood. Most cases respond to conservative management. Patients younger than 4 years with an associated condition have a better prognosis. Patients older than 4 years require surgery more often than younger children. Multiple operative and procedural approaches to rectal prolapse exist with variable recurrence rates and without a clearly superior operation. These include sclerotherapy, Thiersch's anal cerclage, Ekehorn's rectopexy, laparoscopic suture rectopexy, and posterior sagittal rectopexy.

Bio-Thiersch as an Adjunct to Perineal Proctectomy Reduces Rates of Recurrent Rectal Prolapse

BACKGROUND

The rates of recurrent prolapse after perineal proctectomy vary widely in the literature, with incidences ranging between 0% and 50%. The Thiersch procedure, first described in 1891 for the treatment of rectal prolapse, involves encircling the anus with a foreign material with the goal of confining the prolapsing rectum above the anus. The Bio-Thiersch procedure uses biological mesh for anal encirclement and can be used as an adjunct to perineal proctectomy for rectal prolapse to reduce recurrence.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the Bio-Thiersch procedure as an adjunct to perineal proctectomy and its impact on recurrence compared with perineal proctectomy alone.

DESIGN

A retrospective review of consecutive patients undergoing perineal proctectomy with and without Bio-Thiersch was performed.

SETTINGS

Procedures took place in the Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery at a tertiary academic teaching hospital.

PATIENTS

Patients who had undergone perineal proctectomy and those who received perineal proctectomy with Bio-Thiersch were evaluated and compared.

INTERVENTIONS

All of the patients with rectal prolapse received perineal proctectomy with levatorplasty, and a proportion of those patients had a Bio-Thiersch placed as an adjunct.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The incidence of recurrent rectal prolapse after perineal proctectomy alone or perineal proctectomy with Bio-Thiersch was documented.

RESULTS

Sixty-two patients underwent perineal proctectomy (8 had a previous prolapse procedure), and 25 patients underwent perineal proctectomy with Bio-Thiersch (12 had a previous prolapse procedure). Patients who received perineal proctectomy with Bio-Thiersch had a lower rate of recurrent rectal prolapse (p < 0.05) despite a higher proportion of them having had a previous prolapse procedure (p < 0.01). Perineal proctectomy with Bio-Thiersch had a lower recurrence over time versus perineal proctectomy alone (p < 0.05).

LIMITATIONS

This study was limited by nature of being a retrospective review.

CONCLUSIONS

Bio-Thiersch as an adjunct to perineal proctectomy may reduce the risk for recurrent rectal prolapse and can be particularly effective in patients with a history of previous failed prolapse procedures.

Rectal Prolapse in Women-Outcomes of Perineal and Abdominal Approaches

The aim of the study was to assess the clinical and functional results of surgical treatment of female patients with rectal prolapse. In the period of 2003-2010, the group of 86 female patients (mean age of 67 ± 10) underwent surgery due to rectal prolapse. The group of 24 patients (27.9 %) suffered from mild anal incontinence. They were operated on with open sutured rectopexy (18 pts), Altemeier (45 pts) and Delorme procedure (23 pts). Prior to surgery and after operation, clinical and function results were obtained. The follow-up period amounted to 32 ± 11 months. In perineal approaches, we found mortality in one patient (1.4 %, Delorme) and anastomotic leak in four patients (5.9 %). The recurrence rate in the perineal group was 11.8 % (eight patients). We noted one recurrence in the rectopexy group (5.6 %). The Altemeier procedure revealed the most significant impact on the function of the anal sphincter muscles and resting pressures (42 ± 7 vs 53 ± 9 cm H2O; p = 0.0082). If anterior levatoroplasty was added, the benefits referred also to squeeze pressures (41 ± 8 vs 58 ± 9 cm H2O; p = 0.006 and 42 ± 10 vs 56 ± 9 cm H2O; p = 0.01). In the treatment of rectal prolapse, there is still no consensus about the operation of choice. Selection of the appropriate method should be based on clinical findings and patients' comorbidities to obtain maximal benefits and minimize the postoperative risk and failures.

Rectal prolapse and intussusception

Rectal prolapse continues to be problematic for both patients and surgeons alike, in part because of increased recurrence rates despite several well-described operations. Patients should be aware that although the prolapse will resolve with operative therapy, functional results may continue to be problematic. This article describes the recommended evaluation, role of adjunctive testing, and outcomes associated with both perineal and abdominal approaches.

Delorme's Procedure: An Effective Treatment for a Full-Thickness Rectal Prolapse in Young Patients

Purpose

Delorme's procedure is infrequently applied in young adults because of its assumed higher recurrence rate. The aim of this prospective study was to assess the efficacy of the Delorme's technique in younger adults.

Methods

Fifty-two consecutive patients were entered in our study. We followed patients for at least 30 months. Their complaints and clinical exam results were noted.

Results

Our study included 52 patients (mean age, 38.44 years; standard deviation, 13.7 years). Of the included patients, 41 (78.8%) were younger than 50 years of age, and 11 (21.1%) were older than 50 years of age. No postoperative mortalities or major complications were noted. Minor complications were seen in 5 patients (9.6%) after surgery. The mean hospital stay was 2.5 days. In the younger group (age ≤50 years), fecal incontinence was improved in 92.3% (12 out of 13 with previous incontinence) of the patients, and recurrence was seen in 9.75% (4 patients). In the older group (age >50 years), fecal incontinence was improved in 20% (1 out of 5 with previous incontinence) of the patients, and recurrence was seen in 18.2% (2 patients). In 50% of the patients with a previous recurrence (3 out of 6 patients) following Delorme's procedure as a secondary procedure, recurrence was observed.

Conclusion

Delorme's procedure, especially in younger patients, is a relatively safe and effective treatment and should not be restricted to older frail patients. This procedure may not be suitable for recurrent cases.

Rectal prolapse

Optimal management of rectal prolapse requires multiple clinical considerations with respect to treatment options, particularly for surgeons who must counsel and give realistic expectations to rectal prolapse patients. Rectal prolapse outcomes are good with respect to recurrence. Although posterior rectopexy remains most popular in the United States, increasingly surgeons perform ventral rectopexy to repair rectal prolapse. Functional outcomes vary and are fair after rectal prolapse repair. Although incarceration with rectal prolapse is rare, it is potentially life threatening and requires immediate and effective measures to adequately address in the acute setting.

Altemeier's procedure for rectal prolapse: analysis of long-term outcome in 60 patients

AIM

Altemeier's procedure (perineal rectosigmoidectomy) is the operation of choice for rectal prolapse in the elderly. The aims of this prospective observational study were to evaluate its long-term actuarial recurrence risk and the influence of the length of rectosigmoid resection and associated levatorplasty on recurrence rate and continence.

METHOD

The perioperative and long-term data for all patients undergoing Altemeier's procedure since 1992 were analysed with regard to mortality, morbidity, continence, anorectal function and recurrence rate.

RESULTS

Sixty patients [median age 77 years (35-98)] underwent rectosigmoid resection [median length of bowel 14 (6-60) cm] with associated levatorplasty in 21 (35%). Overall mortality and morbidity were 1.6 and 11.6%, respectively. Manometry showed increased anal sphincter basal pressure and maximal squeeze pressure. We observed a decrease in postoperative rectal compliance (P=0.002). Age, gender, prolapse duration before surgery, levatorplasty and length of resection had no statistically significant relationship with recurrence. Continence improved in 62% and was stable over a median follow-up of 48 (1-186) months. Continence was positively related to a short length of bowel resection, but not to decreased rectal compliance. Actuarial recurrence was 14% at 4 years.

CONCLUSION

The long-term recurrence rate after the Altemeier procedure was low and not linked to resection length or to levatorplasty. Improvement in continence was stable over time.

Rectal prolapse

Rectal prolapse is a condition that usually requires surgical intervention to correct. Abdominal and perineal approaches are well described in the literature. Abdominal approaches have traditionally been reserved for young healthy patients, but this has been challenged by perineal approaches with excellent outcomes. Laparoscopic techniques have been shown to be effective and equivalent to traditional laparotomy techniques.

Outcome analysis of elderly patients undergoing laparoscopic resection rectopexy for rectal prolapse

PURPOSE

For treatment of rectal prolapse, abdominal approaches are generally offered to younger patients, whereas perineal, less invasive procedures are considered more beneficial in the elderly. The aim of this study was to analyze whether laparoscopic resection rectopexy (LRR) is suitable for older patients.

PATIENTS/METHODS

Patients who received LRR for rectal prolapse were selected from a prospective laparoscopic colorectal surgery database. Perioperative and long-term outcome were compared between patients <75 years old (group A) and ≥75 years old (group B).

RESULTS

Of 154 patients, 111 were in group A and 43 in group B. There was one conversion that occurred in group B. Overall mortality rate was 1.3% (n = 2). Both patients were in group B (group B, 4.7%; p = 0.079). Differences in major and minor complications between the groups were not significant. Rates of improvement for incontinence were 62.7% (group A) and 66.7% (group B; p = 0.716); for constipation, the rates were 78.9% (group A) and 73.3% (group B; p = 0.832). All recurrences occurred in group A (n = 10; overall, 10.3%; group A, 13%). After exclusion of patients who had previously received perineal prolapse surgery, recurrence rate was 3.3% overall (group A, 4.3%).

CONCLUSIONS

This study supports the benefits of LRR for rectal prolapse in elderly patients. Age per se is not a contraindication for LRR. Elderly patients encounter complications slightly more frequently (although not statistically significant) than younger patients. Therefore, a very careful patient selection in the elderly is of paramount importance. However, the long-term outcome does not seem to differ between younger and elderly patients.

Trans-obturator colonic suspension during Altemeier's operation for full-thickness rectal prolapse: preliminary results with a new technique

AIM

With the aim of reducing recurrence after perineal surgery for full-thickness rectal prolapse, a new operation consisting of a trans-obturator colonic suspension during Altemeier's operation has been developed.

METHOD

Eighteen women with full-thickness rectal prolapse were examined clinically, with validated quality of life and continence scores, colonoscopy, anorectal manometry, anal EMG and sacral reflex latency. Ten had a newly diagnosed and eight a recurrent prolapse. The Altemeier operation was combined with a levatorplasty in all cases using two porcine collagen prostheses sutured to the descending colon and passed through the trans-obturator space bilaterally. The operation was completed by a manual or stapled colo-anal anastomosis. Clinical examination, with quality of life and continence scores, anorectal manometry, EMG and sacral reflex latency, was scheduled during follow up, with the recurrence of prolapse as the primary outcome measure.

RESULTS

There were no recurrences at 30 months. There was no mortality and no complications. All patients experienced significant improvement in quality of life and faecal continence scores (P<0.01). Surgery did not affect anorectal pressures or sacral reflex latencies.

CONCLUSION

The new technique appears to be relatively easy to perform and is complication free with no recurrence after a short period of follow up. A larger study with appropriate controls and longer follow up is now needed to assess its real effectiveness in reducing the risk of recurrence.

Laparoscopic ventral rectopexy for external rectal prolapse is safe and effective in the elderly. Does this make perineal procedures obsolete?

AIM

Perineal approaches are considered to be the 'gold standard' in treating elderly patients with external rectal prolapse (ERP) because morbidity and mortality with perineal approaches are lower compared with transabdominal approaches. Higher recurrence rates and poorer function are tolerated as a compromise. The aim of the present study was to assess the safety of laparoscopic ventral rectopexy (LVR) in elderly patients, compared with perineal approaches.

METHOD

The prospectively collected databases from two tertiary referral pelvic floor units were interrogated to identify outcome in patients of 80 years of age and older with full-thickness ERP treated by LVR. The primary end-points were age, American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) grade, mortality, and major and minor morbidity. Secondary end-points were length of stay (LOS) and recurrence.

RESULTS

Between January 2002 and December 2008, 80 [median age 84 (80-97) years] patients underwent rectopexy. The mean ± standard deviation ASA grade was 2.44 (± 0.57) (two patients were ASA grade I, 42 patients were ASA grade II, 35 patients were ASA grade III and one patient was ASA grade IV). The median LOS was 3 (range 1-37) days. There was no mortality, and 10 (13%) patients had complications (one major and nine minor). At a median follow-up of 23 (2-82) months, two (3%) patients had developed a recurrent full-thickness prolapse.

CONCLUSION

LVR is a safe procedure for using to treat full-thickness ERP in elderly patients. Mortality, morbidity and hospital stay are comparable with published rates for perineal procedures, with a 10-fold lower recurrence.

Rectal prolapse

Despite the innovation of more than 100 surgical procedures for the treatment of complete rectal prolapse, no one procedure is best and applicable to all patients. Traditionally, procedures have been divided into abdominal and perineal approaches. The application of the laparoscopic approach to colon and rectal disease has allowed an additional less invasive method of therapy to treat rectal prolapse successfully. In comparison with conventional approaches, laparoscopy has achieved similar functional results and recurrence rates while reducing postoperative pain and hospital length of stay.

Long-term outcome of Altemeier's procedure for rectal prolapse

INTRODUCTION

Altemeier's procedure is infrequently applied in European countries and because of the small number of patients treated in each center, its long-term reliability is uncertain.

METHODS

Medical records of 93 patients (median age, 77 years) undergoing perineal rectosigmoidectomy associated with levatorplasty in 72 patients (78 percent) were reviewed; 65 patients (70 percent) suffered from major fecal incontinence.

RESULTS

There was no postoperative mortality. Eight (8.6 percent) major complications were observed (3 pelvic hematomas, 1 anastomotic dehiscence, 1 sigmoid perforation, 1 pararectal abscess, and 2 late anal strictures), and 13 (14 percent) minor complications. At a mean follow-up of 41 (range, 12-112) months the complete recurrence rate was 18 percent (17 patients); these patients were treated with a repeat Altemeier's procedure (6 patients), Delorme's operation (1 patient), Wells' rectopexy (1 patient), postanal repair (1 patient), anal bulking agents (2 patients), and sacral nerve stimulation (2 patients). Anal manometry significantly improved postoperatively. Incontinence improved postoperatively in 30 cases (28 percent), deteriorated in 2 patients, while 4 patients developed minor incontinence.

CONCLUSIONS

Perineal rectosigmoidectomy for rectal prolapse is a relatively safe and effective treatment, in particular, for frail, older patients, with a low postoperative morbidity, but the recurrence rate is not negligible and restoration of continence is unpredictable.

Perineal approaches to rectal prolapse

The management of full-thickness rectal prolapse involves surgical intervention in the majority of cases. Many procedures have been described. Perineal procedures are generally reserved for patients with multiple comorbid conditions or those considered too elderly or frail to withstand an abdominal surgical approach. They also play an important role in the management of rectal mucosal prolapse. The techniques, advantages, and complications of perineal approaches to rectal prolapse in use today are the focus of this chapter.

Aluminum potassium sulfate and tannic acid injection in the treatment of total rectal prolapse: early outcomes

PURPOSE

No surgical method for repair of total rectal prolapse has been established as optimal. We describe a new technique that uses ALTA (aluminum potassium sulfate and tannic acid) injection as a simple perianal procedure for total rectal prolapse.

METHODS

Fourteen patients with total rectal prolapse were treated with sclerosing therapy by using ALTA injection. Via a perianal approach, 0.5 to 1 ml of ALTA solution was injected along a linear track into the submucosa at 30 to 80 different sites, totaling 20 to 60 ml.

RESULTS

All 14 patients treated with injection sclerotherapy were cured, with no intraoperative or postoperative complications. One patient required a repeat injection after two months to be cured. No exacerbation of constipation has resulted, and no stenosis has been evident on rectal examination. In seven of ten patients presenting with fecal incontinence, this complaint resolved after therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

ALTA sclerotherapy yielded satisfactory results in total rectal prolapse, causing no alteration in neurophysiology of bowel function. Injection sclerotherapy should be recommended as the first procedure for treatment of total rectal prolapse.

Rectal prolapse

INTRODUCTION

Rectal prolapse, or procidentia, is defined as a protrusion of the rectum beyond the anus. It commonly occurs at the extremes of age. Rectal prolapse frequently coexists with other pelvic floor disorders, and patients have symptoms associated with combined rectal and genital prolapse. Few patients, a lack of randomized trials and difficulties in the interpretation of studies of anorectal physiology have made the understanding of this disorder difficult.

METHODS OF TREATMENT

Surgical management is aimed at restoring physiology by correcting the prolapse and improving continence and constipation, whereas in patients with concurrent genital and rectal prolapse, an interdisciplinary surgical approach is required. Operation should be reserved for those patients in whom medical treatment has failed, and it may be expected to relieve symptoms. Numerous surgical procedures have been suggested to treat rectal prolapse. They are generally classified as abdominal or perineal according to the route of access. However, the controversy as to which operation is appropriate cannot be answered definitively, as the extent of a standardized diagnostic assessment and the types of surgical procedures have not been identified in published series.

LITERATURE REVIEW

This review encompasses rectal prolapse, including aetiology, symptoms and treatment. The English-language literature about rectal prolapse was identified using Medline, and additional cited works not detected in the initial search were obtained. Articles reporting on prospective and retrospective comparisons and case reports were included.

Preoperative anal manometry predicts continence after perineal proctectomy for rectal prolapse

PURPOSE

This study examines whether preoperative anal manometry and pudendal nerve terminal motor latency predict functional outcome after perineal proctectomy for rectal prolapse.

METHODS

All adult patients treated by perineal proctectomy for rectal prolapse from 1995 to 2004 were identified (N = 106). Forty-five patients underwent anal manometry and pudendal nerve terminal motor latency testing before proctectomy and they form the basis for this study.

RESULTS

Perineal proctectomy with levatoroplasty (anterior 88.9 percent; posterior 75.6 percent) was performed in all patients, with a mean resection length of 10.4 cm. Four patients (8.9 percent) developed recurrent prolapse during a 44-month mean follow-up. Preoperative resting and maximal squeeze pressures were 34.2 +/- 18.3 and 60.4 +/- 30.5 mmHg, respectively. Pudendal nerve terminal motor latency testing was prolonged or undetectable in 55.6 percent of patients. Grade 2 or 3 fecal incontinence was reported by 77.8 percent of patients before surgery, and one-third had obstructed defecation. The overall prevalence of incontinence (77.8 vs. 35.6 percent, P < 0.0001) and constipation (33.3 vs. 6.7 percent, P = 0.003) decreased significantly after proctectomy. Patients with preoperative squeeze pressures >60 mmHg (n = 19) had improved postoperative fecal continence relative to those with lower pressures (incontinence rate, 10 vs. 54 percent; P = 0.004), despite having similar degrees of preoperative incontinence. Abnormalities of pudendal nerve function and mean resting pressures were not predictive of postoperative incontinence.

CONCLUSIONS

Perineal proctectomy provides relief from rectal prolapse, with good intermediate term results. Preoperative anal manometry can predict fecal continence rates after proctectomy, because patients with maximal squeeze pressures >60 mmHg have significantly improved outcomes.

Impact of new technologies on the clinical and functional outcome of Altemeier's procedure: a randomized, controlled trial

PURPOSE

A randomized study was performed to assess whether new technologies offer advantages over the conventional technique on the clinical and functional outcome of patients with full-thickness rectal prolapse and fecal incontinence, submitted to Altemeier's procedure with levatorplasty.

METHODS

Between January 1999 and December 2003, 58 patients (55 females; mean age, 70.9 +/- 11.3 years) with full-thickness rectal prolapse were evaluated with continence score, colonoscopy, anorectal manometry, anal electromyography, and sacral reflex latency; 40 of them were selected and randomly assigned to two groups: 20 patients (Group 1; 19 females, 73.4 +/- 10.4 years) were submitted to a conventional operation with monopolar electrocautery and handsewn anastomosis, and 20 (Group 2; 18 females, 71.5 +/- 12.2 years) using harmonic scalpel and circular stapler. Patients were followed up with clinical examination, anorectal manometry, and anal electromyography, with mean follow-up 29.3 +/- 8.5 and 27.5 +/- 9.2 months in Groups 1 and 2, respectively.

RESULTS

Operative time, blood loss, and hospital stay were significantly reduced in Group 2 (P < 0.001), whereas no differences were found in pain score, time to return to normal activity, morbidity, and mortality. Complications were two (10 percent) stenosis in Group 1. Fecal continence score significantly improved in both groups (P < 0.01), whereas anorectal manometry and neurophysiologic data were not significantly modified by the operation. Recurrence rates were 15 and 10 percent in Groups 1 and 2, respectively (P= not significant).

CONCLUSIONS

The clinical and functional long-term results of perineal rectosigmoidectomy with levatorplasty are not influenced by surgical instruments and type of coloanal anastomosis. The clinical relevance of the short-term results in high-risk patients should be specifically investigated.

Management of recurrent rectal prolapse: surgical approach influences outcome

INTRODUCTION

Recurrent rectal prolapse is an unresolved problem and the optimal treatment is debated. This study was designed to review patterns of care and outcomes in a large cohort of patients after surgery for recurrent prolapse.

METHODS

From 685 patients who underwent operative repair for full-thickness external rectal prolapse, we identified 78 patients (70 females; mean age, 66.9 years) who underwent surgery for recurrence. We reviewed the subsequent management and outcomes for these 78 patients.

RESULTS

Mean interval to their first recurrence was 33 (range, 1-168) months. There were significantly more re-recurrences after reoperation using a perineal procedure (19/51) compared with an abdominal procedure (4/27) for their recurrent rectal prolapse (P = 0.03) at a mean follow-up of nine (range, 1-82) months. Patients undergoing abdominal repair of recurrence were significantly younger than those who underwent perineal repair (mean age, 58.5 vs. 71.5 years; P < 0.01); however, there was nosignificant difference between the two groups with regard to the American Society of Anesthesiologists classification (P = 0.89). Eighteen patients had surgery for a second recurrence, with perineal repairs associated with higher failure rates (50 vs. 8 percent; P = 0.07). Finally, when combining all repairs, the abdominal approach continued to have significantly lower recurrence rates (39 vs. 13 percent; P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The re-recurrence rate after surgery for recurrent rectal prolapse is high, even at a relatively short follow-up interval. Our data suggest that abdominal repair of recurrent rectal prolapse should be undertaken if the patient's risk profile permits this approach.

Closed rectopexy with transanal resection for complete rectal prolapse in adults

Many techniques have been described for repair of complete rectal prolapse in adults. The results of abdominal approaches are superior to those of perineal approaches, but they carry the risks of major abdominal surgery. Twenty-seven patients (15 females and 12 males) were included in this study, with a mean age of 46 years. Nine of these patients had fecal incontinence. The operation can be performed under spinal or general anesthesia. The operation involves transanal resection of the redundant part of the rectum followed by rectopexy through small postanal incisions. The mean follow-up period was 24 months. One patient developed infection in one stab incision 6 months after the operation. Two patients had hematoma formation, which were managed conservatively. During the 2-year period of follow-up, no recurrence was observed in any of our patients. Fecal incontinence improved in the nine incontinent patients. The technique is simple, easy, and less invasive with good results and less morbidity and is not associated with serious complications.

Management of rectal prolapse in children

PURPOSE

Rectal prolapse in children is not uncommon and usually is a self-limiting condition in infancy. Most cases respond to conservative management; however, surgery is occasionally required in cases that are intractable to conservative treatment. This study was designed to analyze the outcomes of rectal prolapse in children and to propose a pathway for the management of these cases in children.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of all cases of rectal prolapse referred to our surgical unit during a period of five years was performed. End point was recurrence of prolapse requiring manual reduction under sedation or an anesthetic. Results are presented as median (range) and statistical analysis was performed using chi-squared test; P < 0.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS

A total of 49 children (25 males) presented with symptoms of rectal prolapse at a median age of 2.6 years (range, 4 months -10.6 years). All children received an initial period of conservative treatment with watchful expectancy and/or laxatives. Twenty-five patients were managed conservatively without any additional procedures (Group A), and 24 patients had one or more interventions, such as injection sclerotherapy, Thiersch procedure, anal stretch, banding of prolapse, and rectopexy (Group B). Management of rectal prolapse was successful with no recurrences in 24 patients (96 percent) in Group A vs. 15 patients (63 percent) in Group B at a median follow-up period of 14 (range, 2-96) months. An underlying condition was found in 84 percent of patients in Group A vs. 54 percent in Group B (P = 0.024). The age at presentation was younger than four years in 88 percent of patients in Group A vs. 58 percent in Group B (P = 0.019).

CONCLUSIONS

Rectal prolapse in children does respond to conservative management. A decision to operate is based on age of patient, duration of conservative management, and frequency of recurrent prolapse (>2 episodes requiring manual reduction) along with symptoms of pain, rectal bleeding, and perianal excoriation because of recurrent prolapse. Those cases presenting younger than four years of age and with an associated condition have a better prognosis. The authors propose an algorithm for the management of rectal prolapse in children.

Transperineal repair of obstetric-related anovaginal fistula

BACKGROUND

To describe an operative technique for the repair of anovaginal fistulae secondary to obstetric injury and to assess its functional outcome and patient satisfaction.

METHODS

An operative repair involving division of the anovaginal fistula, closure of rectal and vaginal walls, anterior levatoplasty and overlapping sphincteroplasty is described. Postoperative complications and recurrence were recorded. A telephone interview was carried out to assess the functional outcome and the satisfaction score.

RESULTS

Seven consecutive patients had a repair of an obstetric-related anovaginal fistula. Their mean age was 34 years (range: 22-72). They had a mean duration of symptoms of 14 months (range: 1.5-54). Four patients did not have any previous repair and no stoma was necessary in any of the seven patients. There was no significant postoperative complication and only one recurrence. Telephone interviews were conducted for six patients and one was lost to follow-up. The mean follow-up period was 24 months (11-35). The Wexner's continence score improved from a mean preoperative score of 13.4 to a mean postoperative score of 5.6. With satisfaction scores ranging from +3 to -3 (+3 indicating complete satisfaction and -3 indicating complete dissatisfaction), five patients scored 1 and one scored 0.

CONCLUSION

This technique is straightforward and effective in healing obstetric-related anovaginal fistula. It achieves improved continence and reasonable satisfaction.

Surgical management of combined rectal and genital prolapse in young patients: transabdominal approach

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to determine the anatomical and functional outcomes of the simultaneous treatment of combined rectal and genital prolapse in young patients.

METHODS

Between March 2001 and June 2002, eight female patients with symptomatic rectal and genital prolapse were enrolled in this study. The median age at the time of presentation was 44 years (range 34-53). All patients underwent simultaneous transabdominal treatment of their combined prolapse. Genital prolapse was treated by colpohysteropexy. Rectal prolapse was treated by mesh rectopexy or sutured rectopexy associated with sigmoid resection. The end evaluation to assess long-term results was performed after a median duration of follow-up of 17 months (range 10-24). Patients were asked about current problems with constipation, use of laxatives, incontinence and recurrence.

RESULTS

The postoperative course was uneventful in 7 out of 8 cases. None of the patients had recurrence. Three patients out of 6 remained constipated postoperatively. One patient had a new onset of constipation postoperatively. None of the patients became faecally incontinent. Seven patients (87%) stated that they had improved overall after surgery.

CONCLUSION

Combined rectal and genital prolapse in young women can be safely treated simultaneously using an abdominal approach. The genital prolapse should be treated by colpohysteropexy. The rectal prolapse should be treated by mesh rectopexy in patients who are not constipated, and by sutured rectopexy plus sigmoid resection in patients who are constipated preoperatively.

Rectal prolapse: which surgical option is appropriate?

Numerous surgical procedures have been suggested to treat rectal prolapse. In elderly and high-risk patients, perineal approaches such as Delorme's procedure and perineal rectosigmoidectomy (Altemeier's procedure) have been preferred, although the incidence of recurrence and the rate of persistent incontinence seem to be high when compared with transabdominal procedures. Functional results of transabdominal procedures, including mesh or suture rectopexy and resection-rectopexy, are thought to be associated with low recurrence rates and improved continence. Transabdominal procedures, however, usually imply rectal mobilization and fixation, colonic resection, or both, and some concern is voiced that morbidity, in terms of infection or leakage, and mortality could be increased. If we focus on surgical outcome, our own experience of laparoscopic resection-rectopexy for rectal prolapse shows that the laparoscopic approach is safe and effective, and functional results with respect to recurrence are favorable. However, the controversy "which operation is appropriate?" cannot be answered definitely, as a clear definition of rectal prolapse, the extent of a standardized diagnostic assessment, and the type of surgical procedure have not been identified in published series. Randomized trials are needed to improve the evidence with which the optimal surgical treatment of rectal prolapse can be defined.

Surgical intervention for adult patients with rectal prolapse

This review describes the pathogenesis, diagnosis, preoperative testing, and surgical decision making involved in the management of full-thickness rectal protrusion in adults. Historic and current procedures are described in detail. No one procedure is favored over others, and selection depends on the individual characteristics of the patient.

The Altemeier repair: outpatient treatment of rectal prolapse

PURPOSE

Rectal prolapse typically occurs in elderly patients, who are often poor surgical candidates because of the presence of multiple comorbidities. Abdominal approaches to procidentia have low recurrence rates but are associated with higher rates of morbidity and mortality. Perineal rectosigmoidectomy (Altemeier repair) is a safe and effective approach to the treatment of rectal prolapse and can be done as an outpatient procedure. In this article, the results of a series of 63 consecutive Altemeier repairs are presented.

METHODS

Between February 1993 and December 1999, 63 patients (61 females) underwent Altemeier repair of rectal prolapse. The mean patient age was 79 years. Preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative data were collected and analyzed for all patients.

RESULTS

Median follow-up was 20.8 months. Seventy percent of patients were given a regional or local anesthetic. The average resected specimen length was 11.6 cm, and 83 percent of anastomoses were stapled. Sixty-two percent of patients were discharged home on the day of surgery, and 80 percent were home within 24 hours. Complications occurred in 10 percent of patients, but there was no perioperative mortality. There was a 6.4 percent recurrence rate, and all recurrences were successfully treated with repeat Altemeier repair. All 63 patients had complete objective resolution of prolapse, and 87 percent had subjective improvement after repair.

CONCLUSIONS

Altemeier repair of rectal prolapse is safe, produces minimal discomfort, and does not require a general anesthetic. It is ideally suited to be done on an outpatient basis, as was done in the majority of patients in our series. The recurrence rate is slightly higher than with abdominal resections, but morbidity and cost are lower, and repeat perineal resections are easily and safely performed.

Rectal prolapse, rectal intussusception, rectocele, and solitary rectal ulcer syndrome

Rectal prolapse can be diagnosed easily by having the patient strain as if to defecate. A laparoscopic rectopexy should be recommended. Intussusception is more an epiphenomenon than a cause of defecatory disorder and should be managed conservatively. Solitary rectal ulcer syndrome is a consequence of chronic straining, and therapy should include restoring a normal defecation habit. Rectocele should be left alone; an operation may be considered if it is larger than 3 cm and is causing profound symptoms despite maximizing medical therapy for the associated defecation disorder.

Recurrent rectal prolapse: what is the next good option?

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to assess the clinical and functional outcome of surgery for recurrent rectal prolapse and compare it with the outcome of patients who underwent primary operation for rectal prolapse.

METHODS

All patients who underwent surgery for rectal prolapse were evaluated for age, gender, procedure, anorectal manometry and electromyography findings, and morbidity. The results for patients who underwent surgery for recurrent rectal prolapse were compared with a group of patients matched for age, gender, surgeon, and procedure who underwent primary operations for rectal prolapse.

RESULTS

A total of 115 patients underwent surgery for rectal prolapse. Twenty-seven patients, 10 initially operated on at this institution and 17 operated on elsewhere, underwent surgery for recurrent rectal prolapse. These 27 patients were compared with 27 patients with primary rectal prolapse operated on in our department. In the recurrent rectal prolapse group, prior surgery included rectopexy in 7 patients, Delorme's procedure in 7 patients, perineal rectosigmoidectomy in 7 patients, anal encirclement procedure in 4 patients, and resection rectopexy in 2 patients. Operations performed for recurrence were perineal rectosigmoidectomy in 14 patients, resection rectopexy in 8 patients, rectopexy in 2 patients, pelvic floor repair in 2 patients, and Delorme's procedure in 1 patient. There were no statistically significant differences between the groups in preoperative incontinence score (recurrent rectal prolapse, 13.6 +/- 7.8 vs. rectal prolapse, 12.7 +/- 7.2; range, 0-20) or manometric or electromyography findings, and there were no significant differences in mortality (0 vs. 3.7 percent), mean hospital stay (5.4 +/- 2.5 vs. 6.9 +/- 2.8 days), anastomotic complications (anastomotic stricture (0 vs. 7.4 percent), anastomotic leak (3.7 vs. 3.7 percent) and wound infection (3.7 vs. 0 percent), postoperative incontinence score (2.8 +/- 4.8 vs. 1.5 +/- 2.7), or recurrence rate (14.8 vs. 11.1 percent) between the two groups at a mean follow-up of 23.9 (range, 6-68) and 22 (range, 5-55) months, respectively. The overall success rate for recurrent rectal prolapse was 85.2 percent.

CONCLUSION

The outcome of surgery for rectal prolapse is similar in cases of primary or recurrent prolapse. The same surgical options are valid in both scenarios.

Concurrent genital and rectal prolapse: two pathologies--one joint operation

This study is a prospective assessment of a joint operation to repair concomitant genital and rectal prolapse, including 10 women treated for concomitant genital and rectal prolapse from 1991 to 1995. Joel-Cohen vaginal hysterectomy was used to correct the genital prolapse, followed by the Altemeier procedure (transperineal rectosigmoidectomy) to correct the rectal prolapse. The post-operative course was uneventful in all cases and there were no recurrences of prolapse in the three year follow up period. Improvement of sphincteric tone was shown in all cases by transrectal manometry, and bladder and rectal continence was maintained. The combined surgical procedure for concurrent genital and rectal prolapse is easy to perform and safe and efficient in terms of recurrence and continence. It is hoped this report will increase multidisciplinary awareness of an effective solution for a potentially debilitating problem.

Outcome of colectomy for slow transit constipation

OBJECTIVE

To review the outcome data for colectomy performed for patients with slow transit constipation (STC).

BACKGROUND

The outcome of surgical intervention in patients with STC is unpredictable. This may be a consequence of the lack of effectiveness of such interventions or may reflect heterogeneity within this group of patients.

METHODS

The authors reviewed the data of all series in the English language that document the outcome of colectomy in > or = 10 patients in the treatment of STC.

RESULTS

Thirty-two series fulfilled the entry criteria. There was widespread variability in patient satisfaction rates after colectomy (39% to 100%), reflecting large differences in the incidence of postoperative complications and in long-term functional results. Outcome was dependent on several clinical and pathophysiologic findings and on the type of study, the population studied, and the surgical procedure used.

CONCLUSIONS

It may be possible to predict outcome on the basis of preoperative clinical and pathophysiologic findings. This review suggests a rationale for the selection of patients for colectomy.

Complete rectal prolapse: evolution of management and results

Optional treatment for complete rectal prolapse remains controversial.

PURPOSE

We reviewed our experience over a 19-year period to assess trends in choice of operation, recurrence rates, and functional results.

METHODS

We identified 372 patients who underwent surgery for complete rectal prolapse between 1976 and 1994. Charts were reviewed and follow-up (median, 64: range, 12-231 months) was obtained by mailed questionnaire (149 patients; 40 percent) and telephone interview (35 patients; 9 percent). Functional results were obtained from 184 responders (49 percent).

RESULTS

Median age of patients was 64 (11-100) years, and females outnumbered males by nine to one. One-hundred and eighty-eight patients (51 percent) were lost to follow-up; 183 patients (49 percent) underwent perineal rectosigmoidectomy, and 161 patients (43 percent) underwent abdominal rectopexy with bowel resection. The percentage of patients who underwent perineal rectosigmoidectomy increased from 22 percent in the first five years of the study to 79 percent in the most recent five years. Patients undergoing perineal rectosigmoidectomy were more likely to have associated medical problems as compared with patients undergoing abdominal rectopexy (61 vs. 30 percent, P = 0.00001). There was no significant difference in morbidity, with 14 percent for perineal rectosigmoidectomy vs. 20 percent for abdominal rectopexy. Abdominal procedures were associated with a longer length of stay as compared with perineal rectosigmoidectomy (8 vs. 5 days, P = 0.001). Perineal procedures, however, had a higher recurrence rate (16 vs. 5 percent, P = 0.002). Functional improvement was not significantly different, and most patients were satisfied with treatment and outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that abdominal rectopexy with bowel resection is associated with low recurrence rates. Perineal rectosigmoidectomy provides lower morbidity and shorter length of stay, but recurrence rates are much higher. Despite this, perineal rectosigmoidectomy has appeal as a lesser procedure for elderly patients or those patients in the high surgical risk category. For younger patients, the benefits of perineal rectosigmoidectomy being a lesser procedure must be weighed against a higher recurrence rate.Patient satisfaction]

Management of colorectal-anal dysfunction

Although the majority of patients with low-grade anal incontinence and constipation should be treated medically, for some, efforts will be unsuccessful and surgical therapy will be in order. Full thickness rectal prolapse will, in all early cases, be treated surgically. This article outlines the surgical treatment options for patients with anal incontinence, rectal prolapse, and constipation. Optimal functional outcomes with surgical treatment are based on full physiologic evaluation and careful patient selection.

Preoperative electrophysiologic assessment cannot predict continence after rectopexy

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to evaluate preoperative electrophysiologic assessment for prediction of anal continence after rectopexy.

METHODS

Forty-three patients with rectal prolapse (n = 26) or internal rectal intussusception (n = 17) underwent concentric-needle electromyography, fiber density determination by single-fiber electromyography of the external anal sphincter, and pudendal nerve terminal motor latency evaluation before Ripstein rectopexy. A detailed history was obtained from each patient preoperatively and postoperatively.

RESULTS

Anal continence was improved after rectopexy, both in patients with rectal prolapse (P = 0.06) and in those with internal rectal intussusception (P = 0.003). Abnormal results were registered in one or several aspects of the electrophysiologic assessment in 31 (72 percent) of the patients. However, functional outcome with respect to continence was not predicted by preoperative electromyography or pudendal nerve terminal motor latency assessment results.

CONCLUSION

Electrophysiologic examinations in the preoperative assessment of patients with rectal prolapse and internal rectal intussusception do not predict continence after the Ripstein rectopexy. The routine use of electrophysiologic assessment requires further definition.