Rectal prolapse

Rectal prolapse occurs when part or all of the rectum descends and protrudes through the anus. It ranges from internal descent to visible external protrusion.

Rectum: The final section of the large intestine, where stool is stored before passing through the anus. The rectum is the structure that descends in this condition.
Full-thickness rectal prolapse: External protrusion of the entire rectal wall through the anus. This is the classic form in which concentric folds of the rectal wall are visible.
Rectopexy: An operation that fixes the rectum to the sacrum to prevent it from descending. This abdominal procedure is a common surgical approach to full-thickness rectal prolapse.
Constipation: Infrequent bowel movements or difficult passage of stool, often involving hard stools or straining. Constipation can worsen prolapse and may also develop alongside it.
Anus: The opening at the end of the digestive tract through which stool leaves the body. External prolapse becomes visible as rectal tissue passes through this opening.
Mucosal prolapse: Protrusion of the rectal lining without descent of the full thickness of the rectal wall. It can look similar externally but involves less tissue than full-thickness prolapse.
Perineal rectosigmoidectomy: An operation that removes prolapsed rectum and sigmoid colon through the perineum. This approach treats external prolapse without entering the abdomen.
Rectal ulcer: A break in the lining of the rectum that may cause bleeding, pain, or mucus discharge. Repeated trauma from prolapse can contribute to ulceration of exposed rectal tissue.
Pelvic floor: A group of muscles and connective tissues that supports pelvic organs and helps control urination and defecation. Weakness or dysfunction in pelvic support can contribute to rectal descent.
Obstructed defecation: Difficulty evacuating stool despite the presence of an urge to defecate. Internal rectal descent may obstruct evacuation and cause persistent straining.

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