Types of prolapse:

1. Full-thickness rectal prolapse, where the rectal walls prolapse from the anus in their full thickness. This is the most common type, and the visible protrusion outside the anus may be partial or complete.

2. Mucosal prolapse, where only the lining of the rectum, or the mucosa, protrudes outside.

3. Internal rectal prolapse, where the rectum folds inward, with no visible protrusion outside the anus.

Rectal prolapse treatment:

It is important to initially treat constipation, which can be achieved by following a diet rich in fiber, fluids, vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. In some cases, surgery may be required if the condition persists and cannot be relieved by treating constipation.

Types of rectal prolapse surgeries:

Transabdominal rectal prolapse repair. The surgeon pulls the rectum back into place using an abdominal incision. The rectum is attached to the back wall of the pelvis (sacrum) using sutures or a mesh sling. In some cases, such as a long history of chronic constipation, the surgeon removes part of the colon.

Laparoscopic rectal prolapse surgery. This surgery is also performed transabdominally and uses several small incisions. The surgeon inserts special surgical instruments and a tiny camera through the abdominal incisions to repair the rectal prolapse. A newer robotic approach uses a robot to perform the operation.

Transanal rectal prolapse repair (perineal rectosigmoid resection). In the most common form of this procedure (the Altemeier procedure), the surgeon pulls the rectum through the anus, removes part of the rectum and sigmoid, and attaches the remaining rectum to the large intestine (colon). This repair is usually reserved for patients who are not candidates for open or laparoscopic repair. Another method for transperineal rectal prolapse repair (the Delorme procedure) is usually performed for short prolapses. The lining of the rectum is removed and the muscle layer is folded to shorten the rectum.

Rectal prolapse surgery can be performed through the abdomen (rectopexy)—either through a large incision (open surgery) or laparoscopically—or through the perineum (the area between the genitals and anus).

Surgery may be performed under general anesthesia, where you are asleep; a spinal block, where the lower half is numb; or a combination of relaxing medications and local anesthetics to numb the anus (perianal block).

The method your surgeon uses depends on several factors, such as your age, other health conditions, the surgeon's experience and preferences, and the equipment available. No single procedure is considered optimal. Discuss your options with your surgeon.