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Rectal prolapse rarely requires emergency surgical treatment. However it can be uncomfortable and has a negative impact on quality of life. Our team can help by using the latest, most state-of-the-art treatments and therapies available.
What is Rectal Prolapse?
“Prolapse” is the falling or slipping of an organ from its normal position. Rectal prolapse means that the rectum falls down into the anus from its normal position in the pelvis. It can have different severities that require different treatment approaches by your colorectal surgeon. In some cases, rectal prolapse can look similar to hemorrhoids, therefore it is important to meet with a colorectal surgeon for correct diagnosis.
What are the Symptoms of Rectal Prolapse?
In many cases, you may be able to feel a bulge or mass that extends beyond the anus. This can occur temporarily after a bowel movement or with everyday movements like walking or standing. It may also be associated with symptoms like pain, bleeding, or fecal incontinence.
What Causes Rectal Prolapse?
There are many different causes of rectal prolapse, including:
- Long-term constipation or diarrhea
- Straining during bowel movements
- Older age
- Injury to the pelvic area
- Nerve damage
- Weakening of the anal sphincter
- Conditions like diabetes, COPD, hysterectomy, or cystic fibrosis
What Are My Treatment Options for Rectal Prolapse?
Your first step is consulting a colorectal expert who can determine whether you’re experiencing rectal prolapse and the degree.
In cases of minor rectal prolapse, you may be able to treat it conservatively. In more severe cases, you may need surgery to repair and restructure the pelvic area for greater support. Your colorectal expert can discuss your best options for treatment.
Rectal Prolapse Outlook and Steps to Take
Rectal prolapse is very treatable with the right approach, and certain surgeries have a very high success rate of fixing prolapse. It’s important to partner with your doctor to determine the causes and prevent it from recurring. This might include strengthening exercises for the pelvic floor, avoiding straining during bowel movements, or taking stool softeners to prevent constipation.
Schedule an Appointment
If you’re experiencing symptoms of rectal prolapse, it’s important to meet with a colorectal surgeon and discuss your options. To schedule your appointment, contact ACE Clinic by calling or filling out our online form.
Meet the Doctors
Drs. Hekmat Hakiman and Arpit Patel are leading colorectal surgeons in the greater Phoenix area. As part of our experienced team at ACE Clinic, they can provide exceptional care with a compassionate and friendly approach to colorectal health. Drs. Hakiman and Patel are dual board-certified in general surgery and colorectal surgery, and both completed their fellowship at Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas, TX before founding their physician-owned practice in Chandler, AZ. We hope you’ll feel exceptionally welcome during your time at Arizona Colorectal Experts and look forward to helping meet your health care needs.
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Please do not hesitate to call us at 602-844-5157 or fill out our online form if you have a question, or would like to schedule an appointment.