ABSTRACT

Purpose:

To investigate the effectiveness and safety of laparoscopic procedures in the treatment of rectal prolapse.

Method:

Age, gender, operation time, length of hospital stay, morbidity and mortality rate according to prospective database were recorded and short follow-up results were given.

Results:

Between December 2003 and June 2007, consecutive nine patients with rectal prolapses were treated laparoscopically. Laparoscopic sigmoid resection –rectopexy procedure was performed in eight patients whereas rectopexy was performed in one patient. Procedure was completed laparoscopically in all patients with mortality and morbidity rates, 0% and 11%, respectively. Mean operation time was 150 minutes. All of the patients were available for follow-up. Mean follow-up was 12 (1-43) months. During the follow-up period, prolapse was improved in all patients. There were four patients complaining with incontinence and eight patients complaining with constipation symptom, preoperatively. In all patients incontinence was improved whereas constipation was improved in five (68%) of the eight patients.

Conclusion:

Laparoscopic surgery in the treatment of rectal prolapse is safe and effective method which provides good functional results in short follow-up period.