Overview
What is Rectal Prolapse?
Symptoms
Symptoms of Rectal Prolapse
The symptoms of rectal prolapse include the following:
- Red or pinkish-purple tissue protruding from the anus
- Pain or bleeding after stooling
- Constipation
Diagnosis
Diagnosing Rectal Prolapse
A contrast enema will help to make sure there is not a rectal polyp causing the prolapse.
Testing for an underlying diagnosis that can present with rectal prolapse, such as cystic fibrosis, may also be done.
Treatment
Treatment of Rectal Prolapse
Treatment is focused on treating the underlying condition:
Constipation
A stimulant laxative is prescribed to manage constipation. We recommend limiting time spent sitting on the toilet and using a child-sized toilet seat.
This treatment needs to be followed for a few months. Most of the time the rectal prolapse resolves on its own, rectal prolapse rarely requires surgery.
Manual Reduction
Sometimes, the tissue does not go back on its own. If this happens, follow the steps below for manual reduction:
- Place child in knees to chest position
- Use gloves with lubricant. Place firm, gentle pressure to prolapsed rectal tissue for 5-15 minutes.
- If the rectal tissue will not go back in, go to the emergency room.
Surgical Intervention
Rarely, rectal prolapse continues after consistent medical treatment with laxatives. If medical therapy fails, there are several treatment options. A rectopexy is a common surgical procedure to correct rectal prolapse.