Preoperative Anal Manometry Predicts Continence After Perineal Proctectomy for Rectal Prolapse

Purpose This study examines whether preoperative anal manometry and pudendal nerve terminal motor latency predict functional outcome after perineal proctectomy for rectal prolapse. Methods All adult patients treated by perineal proctectomy for rectal prolapse from 1995 to 2004 were identified (N = 106). Forty-five patients underwent anal manometry and pudendal nerve terminal motor latency testing before proctectomy and they form the basis for this study. Results Perineal proctectomy with levatoroplasty (anterior 88.9 percent; posterior 75.6 percent) was performed in all patients, with a mean resection length of 10.4 cm. Four patients (8.9 percent) developed recurrent prolapse during a 44-month mean follow-up. Preoperative resting and maximal squeeze pressures were 34.2 ± 18.3 and 60.4 ± 30.5 mmHg, respectively. Pudendal nerve terminal motor latency testing was prolonged or undetectable in 55.6 percent of patients. Grade 2 or 3 fecal incontinence was reported by 77.8 percent of patients before surgery, and one-third had obstructed defecation. The overall prevalence of incontinence (77.8 vs. 35.6 percent, P < 0.0001) and constipation (33.3 vs. 6.7 percent, P = 0.003) decreased significantly after proctectomy. Patients with preoperative squeeze pressures >60 mmHg (n = 19) had improved postoperative fecal continence relative to those with lower pressures (incontinence rate, 10 vs. 54 percent; P = 0.004), despite having similar degrees of preoperative incontinence. Abnormalities of pudendal nerve function and mean resting pressures were not predictive of postoperative incontinence. Conclusions Perineal proctectomy provides relief from rectal prolapse, with good intermediate term results. Preoperative anal manometry can predict fecal continence rates after proctectomy, because patients with maximal squeeze pressures >60 mmHg have significantly improved outcomes. Supported exclusively using institutional funding. Presented at the meeting of The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, April 30 to May 5, 2005.     

Surgery for Rectal Prolapse: Orr-Loygue Ventral Rectopexy With Limited Dissection Prevents Postoperative-Induced Constipation Without Increasing Recurrence

Purpose Abdominal rectopexy is the preferred surgical technique for the treatment of total rectal prolapse. In many reported series, its results are impaired by induced constipation. Lateral rectal ligaments preservation could prevent constipation but increase recurrence rates. We report anatomic and functional results of abdominal Orr-Loygue ventral rectopexy with dissection limited to anterior and posterior rectal wall. Methods Consecutive patients with total rectal prolapse or intra-anal rectal prolapse associated to fecal incontinence or outlet obstruction were treated by abdominal rectopexy. Recurrences, correction of symptoms, and induced constipation were prospectively analyzed. Results Seventy-three patients were treated between 1993 and 2004. Recurrence was observed in 3 of 73 patients (4.1 percent) after a mean follow-up period of 28.6 (range, 6–84) months. Overall patient satisfaction (correction of prolapse, incontinence, and/or outlet obstruction) after the procedure was classified in three categories: Cured: n = 45 (61.6 percent); Improved: n = 24 (32.9 percent); Failure: n = 4 (5.5 percent). Postoperative constipation appeared in 2 of 36 (5.5 percent) preoperatively nonconstipated patients and worsened in 2 of 37 (5.4 percent) preoperatively constipated patients. Conclusions Orr-Loygue abdominal ventral rectopexy with limited dissection and preservation of rectal lateral ligaments is a safe and effective procedure for the treatment of complete rectal prolapse, or internal prolapse associated with fecal incontinence or outlet obstruction. Preservation of lateral ligaments seems to prevent postoperative constipation without increasing the risk of prolapse recurrence.     

Overt Rectal Prolapse and Fecal Incontinence

PURPOSE  Rectal prolapse is frequently associated with fecal incontinence; however, the relationship is questionable. The study was designed to evaluate fecal incontinence in a large consecutive series of patients who suffered from rectal prolapse, focusing on both past history, anal physiology, and imaging. METHODS  Eighty-eight consecutive patients who suffered from an overt rectal prolapse (72 women, 16 men; mean age, 51.1 ± 19.5 years) as a main symptom were analyzed; 48 patients also experienced fecal incontinence compared with 40 without incontinence. Logistic regression analyses were performed. RESULTS  The two groups of patients did not differ with respect to parity, weekly stool frequency, main duration of symptoms before referral, occurrence of dyschezia, and digital help to defecate. Patients with prolapse who were older than 45 years (odds ratio (OR), 4.51 (1.49–13.62); P = 0.007) and those with a past history of hemorrhoidectomy (OR, 9.05 (1.68–48.8); P = 0.01) were significantly more incontinent. Incontinent group showed frequent internal anal sphincter defect compared with the continent group (60 vs. 6.2 percent; P = 0.0018). CONCLUSIONS  In patients with overt rectal prolapse, the occurrence of fecal incontinence needs special consideration for age and previous hemorrhoid surgery as causative factors. Anal weakness and sphincter defects are frequently observed.     

Biofeedback therapy for rectal intussusception

Background Surgery for isolated internal rectal intussusception is controversial due to high morbidity. Therefore, there is interest in other forms of treatment that are safe and effective. The aim of this study was to determine outcome and identify predictors for success of biofeedback therapy in patients with rectal intussusception. Methods We retrospectively evaluated the results of electromyography (EMG)–based biofeedback in 34 patients with rectal intussusception without any other major pelvic floor or colonic physiologic disorder. Results A total of 34 patients (7 men) had undergone at least 2 biofeedback sessions. The patients had a mean age of 68.5 years (SD=11.4 years). In the 27 patients with constipation, the frequency of weekly spontaneous bowel movements (mean±SD) was 2.0±6.8 before and 4.1±4.6 after biofeedback (p<0.05). The frequency of weekly assisted bowel movements decreased from 3.8±3.5 before to 1.5±2.2 after therapy (p<0.005). The number of patients who experienced incomplete evacuation decreased from 17 (63%) to 9 (33%) (p<0.05). Thirty–three percent of patients had complete resolution of the symptoms, 19% had partial improvement, and 48% had no improvement. Patients with constipation lasting less than nine years had a 78% success rate vs. 13% in patients who were consti– pated more than 9 years (p<0.01). In seven patients with incontinence, the frequency of daily incontinence episodes decreased from 1.0±0.7 before to 0.07±0.06 after biofeedback (p<0.05). The fecal incontinence score decreased from 13.1±4.2 before to 4.6±3.6 after treatment (p<0.005). Two patients (29%) were completely continent following biofeedback, 2 had partial improvement, and 3 (43%) had no significant improvement. There was no mortality in either group. Conclusions Biofeedback is a safe and effective treatment option for constipation and fecal incontinence due to rectal intussusception in patients who are willing to complete the course of treatment. Long–standing constipation is less effectively cured by biofeedback.     

Laparoscopic rectovaginopexy for rectal prolapse

Background Open rectovaginopexy is an effective procedure for the treatment of both rectal prolapse and anterior rectocele. This study investigates our results of laparoscopic rectovaginopexy (LRVP). Methods A consecutive series of 14 patients (median age, 73 years; range 24–92) with rectal prolapse was planned for LRVP. Pre-, per- and postoperative parameters were recorded. Followup was performed at the outpatients’ clinic. Results The median length of hospital stay was 6 days (range, 3–14). There was one fatal cerebrovascular accident 14 days postoperatively; this patient was excluded from further analysis. Median follow-up was 7 months (range, 0.75–38). During follow-up, 11 of 13 patients (85%) experienced resolution or major improvement of their symptoms. Anal incontinence was diminished in 9 of 13 cases (69%). Constipation improved in 2 of 3 patients (66%). These three patients experienced a combination of both anal incontinence and costipation, preoperatively. Recurrence occurred in 2 patients (15%). Two others had a minor residual mucosal prolapse. No patients reported symptoms suggestive of operation-induced constipation or dyspareunia. Conclusions LRVP is feasible, and seems to be an effective procedure for rectal prolapse. No operationinduced constipation was observed in this series. Taking into account the age and co-morbidities of these patients, morbidity and mortality may be considered acceptable. An erratum to this article is available at .     

Combined biofeedback, physiotherapy and electrostimulation for fecal incontinence

Different outcomes are reported in the literature following pelvic floor rehabilitation for fecal incontinence, possibly due to the type of procedure employed, whether biofeedback or physiotherapy or electrostimulation. The aim of the present study is to analyze the results achieved in a group of patients treated with a combination of the three procedures. Thirty-two patients (24 females) affected by fecal incontinence underwent a course of combined rehabilitation (CR); 23 of them had anal surgery prior to CR, for rectal mucosal prolapse and hemorrhoids in most cases. Eighteen had anal manometry before and after CR. Sixteen underwent anal ultrasound prior to treatment. Patients were taught perineal exercises, biofeedback was either sensory or electromyographic, and electrostimulation was performed with a 10–20 MHz endoanal probe. Twenty-seven patients were available for follow-up. The mean incontinence score improved from 4.0±0.8 to 2.1±1.7 (mean±sd) (p<0.001); 19 patients (70%) were satisfied after CR, and 11 (44%) were fully continent. Post-treatment manometry showed an increased amplitude of squeeze pressure in 50% of the cases, whereas 61% had an increase in duration, but only 27% of them had a positive clinical outcome. Rectal evacuation thresholds improved in 55% of the cases and 86% of them had a corresponding positive clinical outcome. At ultrasound, 6 patients showed intact anal sphincters and had a positive outcome following CR. Pelvic floor rehabilitation seems to be effective for the management of fecal incontinence when carried out combining different types of procedures. No significant correlation was found between manometric and clinical response to the treatment. An increase of rectal sensation may be responsible for the clinical improvement. Received: 25 August 2000 / Accepted in revised form: 20 October 2000     

Recurrent rectal prolapse

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to assess the clinical and functional outcome of surgery for recurrent rectal prolapse and compare it with the outcome of patients who underwent primary operation for rectal prolapse. METHODS: All patients who underwent surgery for rectal prolapse were evaluated for age, gender, procedure, anorectal manometry and electromyography findings, and morbidity. The results for patients who underwent surgery for recurrent rectal prolapse were compared with a group of patients matched for age, gender, surgeon, and procedure who underwent primary operations for rectal prolapse. RESULTS: A total of 115 patients underwent surgery for rectal prolapse. Twenty-seven patients, 10 initially operated on at this institution and 17 operated on elsewhere, underwent surgery for recurrent rectal prolapse. These 27 patients were compared with 27 patients with primary rectal prolapse operated on in our department. In the recurrent rectal prolapse group, prior surgery included rectopexy in 7 patients, Delorme's procedure in 7 patients, perineal rectosigmoidectomy in 7 patients, anal encirclement procedure in 4 patients, and resection rectopexy in 2 patients. Operations performed for recurrence were perineal rectosigmoidectomy in 14 patients, resection rectopexy in 8 patients, rectopexy in 2 patients, pelvic floor repair in 2 patients, and Delorme's procedure in 1 patient. There were no statistically significant differences between the groups in preoperative incontinence score (recurrent rectal prolapse, 13.6±7.8vs. rectal prolapse, 12.7±7.2; range, 0–20) or manometric or electromyography findings, and there were no significant differences in mortality (0vs. 3.7 percent), mean hospital stay (5.4±2.5vs. 6.9±2.8 days), anastomotic complications (anastomotic stricture (0vs. 7.4 percent), anastomotic leak (3.7vs. 3.7 percent) and wound infection (3.7vs. 0 percent)), postoperative incontinence score (2.8±4.8vs. 1.5±2.7), or recurrence rate (14.8vs. 11.1 percent) between the two groups at a mean follow-up of 23.9 (range, 6–68) and 22 (range, 5–55) months, respectively. The overall success rate for recurrent rectal prolapse was 85.2 percent. CONCLUSION: The outcome of surgery for rectal prolapse is similar in cases of primary or recurrent prolapse. The same surgical options are valid in both scenarios.Funded in part by a generous grant from the Eleanor Naylor Dana Charitable Trust Fund and the Caporella Family.Poster presentation at the meeting of The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, June 22 to 26, 1997.     

Physiologic and clinical assessment of patients with rectoanal intussusception

The aims of this study were (1) to establish an objective baseline to assess the severity of rectoanal intussusception by the depth of rectal infolding and (2) to compare manometric and defecographic parameters in patients to validate this new objective classification of intussusception. Between July 1988 and September 1997, 224 patients with rectoanal intussusception confirmed by cinedefecography who underwent anal manometry were evaluated. These patients were classified into two groups based on the depth infolding: group I (n = 163), intussusception < 10 mm infolding seen on the rectal wall; and group II (n = 61), intussusception ≥ 10 mm infolding extending into the anal canal. There were 32 males and 192 females, of a mean age of 61 years (range, 19–88). Patients were subdivided into 5 groups according to their dominant complaint. Complaints were constipation with incomplete evacuation (n = 113, 69.3%), fecal incontinence (n = 28, 17.2%), rectal pain (n = 19, 11.7%) and others (n = 3, 1.8%) in group I and constipation (n = 34, 55.7%), sensation of prolapse (n = 14, 23.0%) and others (n = 13, 21.3%) in group II. There was a significant difference in the degree of intussusception relative to sensation of prolapse (p < 0.05). Manometry showed that the rectoanal inhibitory reflex was absent more often in patients in group II (19.7% vs. 8.5%) than in group I (p < 0.05). Moreover, group I patients had higher mean and maximum squeeze pressures when compared to group II (78.1 vs. 62.5, 105.9 vs. 88.8 mm Hg, respectively, p < 0.05). the incidences of combined cinedefecographic anomalies, such as rectocele, sigmoidocele and perineal descent, were high: 85.2% in group II and 79.1% in group I (p > 0.05). In conclusion, this study showed manometric and symptomatic differences relative to the size of the intussusception. The decreased pressure seen in patients with larger intussusception may auger for the subsequent development of incontinence in these patients. Received: 28 February 2000 / Accepted in revised form: 15 March 2000     

Ripstein procedure is an effective treatment for rectal prolapse without constipation

The operation of choice for complete rectal prolapse is controversial. We reviewed 169 patients undergoing 185 surgical procedures for rectal prolapse over a 27-year period. The most common surgical procedure employed was the Ripstein procedure (n=142) and is the focus of this report. Other surgical procedures used included resection rectopexy (n=18), anterior resection (n=7), Altemeier's (n=9), Delorme's (n=2), and anal encirclement (n=7). The median age was 59 years (range, 12–94 years), and the female-to-male ratio was 51. The incidence of fecal incontinence, solitary rectal ulcer syndrome, and prior surgery elsewhere for rectal prolapse was 40 percent, 12 percent, and 19 percent, respectively. Operative mortality was 0.6 percent; morbidity was 16 percent. Median follow-up was 4.2 years (range, 1–15 years). Complete recurrence of prolapse after the Ripstein procedure was 8 percent; one-third of these patients recurred 3 to 14 years after surgery. Fecal incontinence improved after the Ripstein procedure or resection rectopexy in about half the patients. Persistence of prior constipation was more common after the Ripstein procedure than after resection rectopexy (57 percent vs. 17 percent;P=0.03, chi-squared). Fifteen patients developed constipation for the first time after the Ripstein procedure. About one in three patients, irrespective of surgical procedures, remained dissatisfied with the final outcome despite anatomic correction of the prolapse. The Ripstein procedure has proven to be a safe procedure with good anatomic repair of the prolapse and may improve continence. In the presence of constipation, procedures other than the Ripstein procedure may be preferable.Read in part at the meeting of The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons, San Francisco, California, June 7 to 12, 1992.     

Surgical treatment of haemorrhoids with the use of the circular stapler and open haemorrhoidectomy. A comparative study

The surgical treatment of haemorrhoids with the use of a circular stapler is a novel method. A comparative retrospective study of two groups of patients treated surgically for third- and fourth-degree haemorrhoids was conducted. Fifty patients (group A) underwent a surgical intervention with the circular stapler in the rectal mucosa 4 cm above the dentate line. In another group of 50 patients (group B), the standard open haemorrhoidectomy (Milligan-Morgan) was carried out. The new method (group A) compared with the standard haemorrhoidectomy (group B) was found to be less time consuming (mean time, 10±2 minutes vs. 35±5 minutes, p<0.001). The majority of patients (28) in group A experienced mild pain (VAS, 3–5) while pain for the majority of patients in group B was 5–7 on the VAS scale (p<0.01). The duration of postoperative hospitalisation was 1±1 days for the patients of group A and 5±2 days for the patients of group B (p<0.05). The early postoperative bleeding rate was 6% in group A and 12% in group B (p<0.01). None of the patients of group A developed incontinence and 6 (12%) patients in group B developed mild liquid incontinence during the first postoperative month. During the period of follow-up (12 months to 3 years, median length 18 months in outpatient visits), no patient in either group developed recurrence of haemorrhoids or rectal prolapse. In conclusion, the surgical treatment of haemorrhoids with the circular stapler seems to be an efficient alternative to the standard open haemorrhoidectomy when this is indicated. Received: 28 April 2000 / Accepted in revised form: 18 October 2000     

Rectal mucosal prolapse in males: surgery is effective for fecal incontinence but not for obstructed defecation

Background

The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the functional outcome of transanal surgery in male patients suffering from fecal incontinence, soiling, and obstructed defecation associated with rectal mucosal prolapse.

Methods

All male patients who underwent transanal surgery (either stapled or Delorme mucosectomy) for rectal mucosal prolapse associated with fecal incontinence and obstructed defecation were prospectively enrolled in the study. The recruitment phase was 17 months (April 2011 to August 2012). Symptom evaluation was based on the validated scores preoperatively and 12 months after surgery (Wexner incontinence score and Wexner constipation score). The primary end point was “success,” which was defined as a 50 % reduction in symptoms. Using a decision-tree algorithm, patient groups with the highest and lowest chance of success were identified.

Results

Thirty-eight male patients (mean age 51 years) underwent transanal surgery for rectal mucosal prolapse. The predominant symptoms were fecal incontinence in 31 patients (82 %) and obstructed defecation in 7 (18 %). Stapled mucosectomy was performed in 34 patients and Delorme mucosectomy in 4 patients. No major morbidity occurred. Symptom resolution for soiling was 77 %, itching and mucus secretion were improved in 47 and 50 %, and bleeding resolved in 89 % of patients affected. Functional outcome was good in 90 % (28/31) of the patients with fecal incontinence but in only 28 % (2/7) for obstructed defecation. The Wexner incontinence score decreased significantly (11.1 vs. 3.9, p < 0.01), whereas the Wexner constipation score was not influenced (18.4 vs. 15.6, p > 0.05). Using a decision-tree algorithm, a success rate of 96 % was observed in patients with fecal incontinence associated with younger age (age <45 years) and no presence of fecal urgency prior to surgery.

Conclusions

Transanal stapled mucosectomy for rectal mucosal prolapse in males is effective for fecal incontinence, but not for obstructed defecation.     

Cauterization-plication operation in the treatment of complete rectal prolapse

The current communication presents a simple technique for treatment of complete rectal prolapse (CRP). The study included 28 patients presenting with CRP (mean age, 36.4 years; 4 children 2–12 years; 17 female and 11 males). Fourteen patients had fecal incontinence. With the patient under general anesthesia in lithotomy position, the prolapsed rectum was pulled outside the anal canal, the mucosa was cauterized in vertical lines and the exposed muscle layer was plicated by 2/0 coated Vicryl sutures. Posterior levatorplasty was done in 14 adult patients in whom the length of prolapsed segment was more than 10 cm and who were incontinent due to a wide levator hiatus. The postoperative follow up was 31.6±14.8 months (mean±SD). Five had postoperative mucosal prolapse and one had recurrence 3 months of operation. Mucosal plication was performed for the five patients and the operation was redone for the recurrent patient. Fecal impaction, stricutre and fistula formation were not encountered. The technique is simple, easy and with minimal complications. Received: 22 November 2001 / Accepted in revised form: 8 February 2002     

Laparoscopic low ventral rectocolpopexy (LLVR) for rectal and rectogenital prolapse: surgical technique and functional results

Background

Laparoscopic ventral rectopexy limits the risk of autonomic nerve damage, and the colpopexy allows correction of a concomitant prolapse of the middle compartment. The aim of this study is to describe a modified laparoscopic ventral rectocolpopexy procedure with a low approach to the sacral hollow (laparoscopic low ventral rectocolpopexy: LLVR). We propose this technique to manage combined rectogenital prolapse.

Methods

Between November 2006 and June 2009, all patients with symptomatic rectal prolapse associated with genital prolapse and/or enterocele underwent LLVR. Demographics, results of imaging studies, mortality, morbidity, and functional outcome were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

Thirty patients underwent LLVR: two patients suffered from a full-thickness rectal prolapse while 28 had symptomatic recto-anal intussusception. The mean operating time was 94?±?39?minutes. Conversion to laparotomy was never needed. Hospital stay ranged between 2 and 14?days (mean of 5?±?2.5?days). No mortality was recorded and only two complications occurred (6.6?%): one trocar site incisional hernia and one vaginal suture erosion in a patient who had concomitant hysterectomy. After a mean follow-up of 13.9?months, constipation was completely resolved or improved in 92.8?% patients. Significant reduction in the mean Altomare obstructed defecation score (14.7–5.6; p?<?0.05) was recorded. Preoperative incontinence improved after the procedure in all patients affected. No new cases of postoperative constipation or fecal incontinence were registered. Only one case of recurrence in a patient with recto-anal intussusception was recorded (3.4?%), after 19?months.

Conclusions

Laparoscopic low ventral rectocolpopexy is safe and associated with very low morbidity. In the medium term, it provides good result for prolapse and associated symptoms.     

Complete rectal prolapse clinical and functional outcome with Delorme's procedure.

INTRODUCTION: Many surgical techniques -both through the perineal and abdominal routes- have been described for the treatment of rectal prolapse. The aim of this work is to evaluate the clinical and functional outcome with Delorme's perineal procedure. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Twenty-one patients with complete rectal prolapse were studied from July 2000 to October 2005. Age, gender, anesthetic risk, and accompanying symptoms were all assessed. Diagnostic tests performed included: colonoscopy, anorectal manometry before and after surgery, and 360 masculine endoanal ultrasonography. Delorme's procedures were carried out by only one surgical team. RESULTS: No mortality occurred, and morbidity was minimal. Prolapse relapse rate was 9.52% with a mean follow-up of 34 months. Anal continence improved in 87.5% of patients, and no surgery-associated constipation ensued. Mean hospital stay was 2 (range 1-4) days. During the postoperative period no pain developed in 17 patients, and 4 patients had mild pain. Satisfaction with surgery was high in 16 cases (76.19%), moderate in 3 (14.28%), and low in 2 (9.52%). CONCLUSIONS: Delorme's procedure for the management of complete rectal prolapse is associated with low morbidity, improves anal continence, gives rise to no postsurgical constipation, and has an acceptable relapse rate. Patient satisfaction with this procedure is high because of its high comfortability (intradural anesthesia, short hospital stay, and little postoperative pain) and optimal results.     

Continence is improved after the ripstein rectopexy

PURPOSE: This study was undertaken to evaluate anal manometric changes after Ripstein's operation for rectal prolapse and rectal intussusception and to study the clinical outcome following the operation, with special reference to anal incontinence. METHODS: Forty-two patients with rectal prolapse or rectal intussusception were subjected to anorectal manometry preoperatively and seven days and six months postoperatively. A detailed history was obtained from each patient preoperatively and six months postoperatively. RESULTS: Preoperatively, patients with rectal intussusception had higher maximum resting pressure (MRP) (52±23 mmHg) than patients with rectal prolapse (34±20 mmHg;P <0.01). In the group of patients with rectal prolapse, there was a postoperative increase in MRP after six months (P <0.001) but not after seven days. Maximum squeeze pressure (MSP) did not increase. Neither MRP nor MSP increased postoperatively in patients with internal rectal procidentia. Continence was improved postoperatively both in patients with rectal prolapse (P <0.01) and rectal intussusception (P <0.01). There was no postoperative increase in rectal emptying difficulties. CONCLUSION: Ripstein's operation often improved anal continence in patients with rectal prolapse and rectal intussusception. This improvement was accompanied by increased MRP in patients with rectal prolapse, indicating recovery of internal anal sphincter function. No postoperative increase in MRP was found in patients with rectal intussusception. This suggests an alternate mechanism of improvement in patients with rectal intussusception.Supported by grants from Kjell and Märta Beijers Stiftelse and Marianne and Marcus Wallenbergs Stiftelse.     

Bowel function following sutured abdominal rectopexy

Aim of this investigation was to validate a previous pilot study which indicated that in properly selected patients with rectal prolapse, the simple sutured abdominal rectopexy adequately controls prolapse, improves continence and does not worsen constipation. Patients with overt procidentia recti without severe constipation and without redundant sigmoid colon were enrolled into the present study. Anatomical and functional outcomes were prospectively evaluated. The study group comprised 54 female and 3 male patients with overt, full-thickness rectal prolapse. The entry criteria excluded “slow transit” constipation and redundant sigmoid colon, but permitted mild or moderate “outlet obstruction” constipation. Among the patients, 75% also suffered also from different grades of incontinence. Abdominal rectopexy without prosthetic mesh and without resection was performed. The operation involved posterior and lateral mobilization of the rectum and direct suture of mesorectum to the presacral fascia. The mean follow-up was 38 months. Anatomical control was achieved in all patients. Fecal incontinence was present in 75% of the patients before the operation, but only in 30% following the operation. The overall number of constipated patients decreased after rectopexy from 65% to 40% and there was no deterioration to the severe type of constipation. In conclusion, sutured abdominal rectopexy is simple, safe and effective. It controls prolapse and significantly improves the associated incontinence. The anatomical and functional characteristics of the individual patient should guide the choice of the best operation for rectal prolapse. Received: 15 September 1999 / Accepted in revised form: 10 October 1999     

Anal Continence After Rectocele Repair

INTRODUCTION: Rectocele may be associated with both chronic constipation and anal incontinence. Several different surgical procedures have been advocated for rectocele repair. The aim of the present study was to evaluate anorectal function and clinical outcome in a consecutive series of patients who underwent selected endorectal or transperineal surgery for rectocele for whom operative treatment was determined by clinical and proctographic features. Attention was paid to the cohort of rectocele patients presenting with incontinence as a leading symptom. METHODS: Sixty consecutive patients with symptomatic rectocele underwent surgical treatment at our institution. Fifty-eight of the patients were female (mean age 56; range, 21–70 years). Incontinence was graded according to a previously reported scoring system that accounts for the type and frequency of incontinence episodes. Preoperative anorectal manometry was performed using an open perfused polyethylene probe. Rectal sensation was recorded by balloon distention. Endoanal ultrasonography was performed with a 7.5-MHz probe. Preoperative defecography was performed at rest and on maximal squeeze and straining. Patients with obstructed defecation as their principal symptom, with associated mucosal rectal prolapse, underwent an endorectal procedure. For patients with associated anal incontinence (Grade B2 or greater), and without a rectal mucosal prolapse, a transperineal approach was performed with either an anterior external overlapping sphincteroplasty or levatorplasty. The median follow-up was 48 (range, 9–122) months. RESULTS: There was no operative mortality. Postoperative complications occurred in 18 patients (30 percent). Of 43 patients with incontinence, 34 (79 percent) were available for postoperative evaluation. None were fully continent. However, in 25 patients (73.5 percent), continence improved after surgery; half had only mucus soiling or loss of gas. Incontinence scores decreased (i.e., improved) from 4.8 ± 0.9 to 3.9 ± 0.9 (P = 0.002). A significant improvement was found both after transanal and perineal procedures. Only ten initially continent patients were available for postoperative assessment. All patients stated that they had clinical improvement in constipation. Their preoperative mean anal resting pressure was 62.5 ± 3.9 (standard error of the mean) mmHg, with a postoperative mean of 75.5 ± 7 mmHg. The preoperative mean squeeze pressure was 83.1 ± 8.5 mmHg, with a mean postoperative squeeze pressure of 88.5 ± 7.9 mmHg (P = not significant). The maximal tolerable volumes were all within normal limits, confirming the proctographic evidence that there were no cases of megarectum in our patient series. The pudendal nerve terminal motor latency was abnormal in all but two patients with incontinence (mean pudendal nerve terminal motor latency = 3.1; range, 1.2–4 milliseconds). Rectoceles recurred in six patients (10 percent): five after a Block procedure and one after a Sarles-type operation. The postoperative endosonographic appearance varied according to the nature of the procedure performed. CONCLUSION: There are few data concerning patients with rectocele who have associated anal incontinence, however, surgical decision analysis resulted in improvement in both constipation and incontinence in the majority of our patients with rectocele. Nevertheless, because none of the patients gained full continence postoperatively, pelvic floor rehabilitation might be also needed to achieve better sphincter function in patients with incontinence.     

Laparoscopic suture rectopexy without resection is effective treatment for full-thickness rectal prolapse

PURPOSE: The study was undertaken to evaluate the role of laparoscopic suture rectopexy without resection as a safe and effective treatment for full-thickness rectal prolapse. METHOD: Data were prospectively collected and analyzed on 25 patients who underwent laparoscopic rectopexy without resection for full-thickness rectal prolapse between October 1994 and July 1998. Four patients had conversions from laparoscopic to open surgery. Two patients had recurrent prolapse previously managed by Delorme's procedure. Another two patients had solitary rectal ulcer syndrome associated with their full-thickness rectal prolapse. There were a total of three males. Mean age was 72 (range, 37–89) years. The preoperative and postoperative course of each patient was followed up, with attention paid to first bowel movement, hospital stay, duration of surgery, fecal incontinence, constipation, recurrent prolapse, morbidity, and mortality. Follow-up was made by clinic appointments and, if necessary, by telephone review. RESULTS: Median follow-up period was 26 (range, 1–41) months. Mean duration of surgery was 96 (range, 50–150) minutes. Postoperatively, the median time for first bowel movement was four (range, 2–10) days. Median hospital stay was seven (range, 3–23) days. Overall, 15 patients (60 percent) either improved or remained unchanged with respect to continence. There was an improvement in 10 of 20 patients (50 percent) among those with continence Grade 2 or more (P<0.05). Seven patients (28 percent) remained incontinent. No patient became more incontinent after surgery. Constipation, which was present in 9 patients (36 percent) preoperatively, affected 11 patients (44 percent) after rectopexy (P>0.05; not significant). Postoperative morbidity included a port site hernia and deep venous thrombosis in one patient, a repaired rectal perforation, a retroperitoneal hematoma with prolonged ileus (1 case), and a superficial wound infection (1 case). One patient with solitary rectal ulcer syndrome in the laparoscopic surgery group remained unhealed despite resolution of the rectal prolapse after rectopexy and required abdominoperineal resection. Two patients (laparoscopic surgery = 1 and open surgery = 1) had severe constipation after surgery and both required loop colostomies. There were no cases of operative mortality or recurrent prolapse. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic suture rectopexy without resection is both safe and effective in this frequently frail population and offers a minimally invasive approach that may have potential advantages for selected groups of patients with full-thickness rectal prolapse.Mr. Hartley was supported by an education grant from Autosuture UK.Presented in part to the Association of Surgeons of Great Britain and Ireland, Brighton, United Kingdom, May 4 to 7 1999.     

Long-term outcome after overlapping anterior anal sphincter repair for fecal incontinence

Purpose

The aim was to assess long-term results and quality of life following anterior anal sphincter repair for anal incontinence.

Patients and methods

Twenty-three female patients underwent anterior anal sphincteroplasty over a 10-year period between January 1999 and January 2009 in a gynecological surgery department. Patients were asked to complete pre- and postoperative questionnaires comprising the Jorge and Wexner incontinence score. The secondary objective was to assess pre- and post-sphincteroplasty symptom severity and sexual quality of life. Mean follow-up was 87 months (median, 91.5 months). Kaplan-Meier time-to-event analysis was applied.

Results

Mean age was 52 years (±15.2), and mean postoperative Jorge and Wexner score, 7.5/20 (±4.1). Seventeen patients (85 %) declared themselves satisfied by the repair; 12 (60 %) showed good fecal continence. Fecal incontinence had a negative impact on quality of life for 15 % and on sexuality for 50 % of patients. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed 85 % conservation of anal continence correction at 1 year, 74 % at 48 months, 67 % at 60 months, and 48 % at 84 months.

Conclusions

Overlapping anterior anal sphincter repair provided lasting improvement in fecal incontinence, with satisfactory long-term functional results. At 84 months’ follow-up, 48 % of patients maintained good fecal continence, with a satisfaction rate of 85 %. Anal sphincteroplasty may be a first-line attitude in young female fecal incontinence patients with a recent sphincter defect following initially undiagnosed obstetric trauma and also restores perineal comfort.     

Sarafoff's anoplasty for incontincence following Whitehead's haemorrhoidectomy

The purpose of our study was to ascertain whether Sarafoff's anoplasty is a valid option for anal ectropion (eversion), in which mucosal prolapse causes continuous mucus discharge and faecal incontinence from loss of sensitivity due to anal skin removal. A retrospective evaluation was made of 12 patients (8 female and 4 male, mean follow-up time 8.3 years, range 2–12 years) who, from 1984 through 1997, underwent Sarafoff's anoplasty for anal ectropion following Whitehead's haemorroidectomy, which in 5 cases had been combined with prolapsectomy. Eight patients complained of incontinence to solid faeces (Miller's score 7–9), and the remaining 4 of incontinence to liquid faeces and gas (Miller's score 1–6). The median score for preoperative incontincence was 7. All patients underwent pre- and postoperative manometric evaluation. Sarafoff's anoplasty consists of a cutaneous and subcutaneous circular incision to a depth equal to that of the sphincteric apparatus (1–4 cm), and at a distance of 1–2 cm from the everted anal or rectal mucosa, with analcoccygeal ligament sectioning. The wound created is made to heal without sutures. Scar retraction, together perhaps with the action of the levator ani muscle, raises the eversion, thus restoring the anoderm of the distal anal canal. On comparing values before and after Sarafoff's anoplasty, a significant improvement was found in: mucus secretion (P < 0.01), ectropion (P < 0.01), and degree of postoperative continence, with a median score of 2 (P < 0.01). No statistical difference was found between mean manometric parameters before and after surgery. Sarafoff's anoplasty in selected patients with ectropion combined with faecal incontinence due to loss of anal sensitivity, is a simple procedure with good long-term results, and without important complications. Received: 19 January 1999 / Accepted in revised form: 13 May 1999