Transanal Small Bowel Evisceration: An Unusual Presentation of Rectal Impalement

Spontaneous evisceration of small bowel through the rectum in the background of rectal prolapse

Small bowel evisceration secondary to rectal prolapse is an uncommon complication with significant morbidity and mortality if left untreated. We report a rare case of the spontaneous evisceration of the small bowel through the rectum in the background of rectal prolapse. A 73-year-old female presented to the emergency treatment unit with sudden worsening of her rectal procidentia (rectal prolapse) and pain for 3 h precipitated by straining at defecation. She had a history of complete rectal prolapse for 4 years and three uncomplicated vaginal deliveries. On examination, she was found to have evisceration of the small bowel through the anus without any evidence of strangulation. Emergency laparotomy was performed and small bowel was reduced into the abdomen with ease. She was found to have a linear tear on the anterior wall of the rectum. Primary repair of the rectal defect was carried out and a proximal defunctioning ileostomy was created. Histology was unremarkable and the recovery was uneventful. Old age, history of previous vaginal deliveries, and long-standing rectal prolapse were probable risk factors in this patient. Delay in treating this condition may result in significant morbidity and even mortality. Therefore, timely intervention is necessary.

Transanal Small Bowel Evisceration: An Unusual Presentation of Rectal Impalement

Traumatic transanal small bowel evisceration is a rare condition usually associated with suction injuries or blunt abdominal trauma. We report the first case of intestinal evisceration through the anus caused by penetrating trauma (rectal impalement). Additionally, we performed a literature review of all English language articles since 1970 concerned with traumatic transanal small bowel evisceration. Mechanisms of injury and the surgical management are discussed.