What are the main causes of rectal prolapse. How is rectal prolapse diagnosed and treated. What are the differences between rectal prolapse and hemorrhoids. How can rectal prolapse be prevented.

Understanding Rectal Prolapse: A Comprehensive Overview

Rectal prolapse is a medical condition where the rectum, the final segment of the large intestine, protrudes through the anus. This condition affects approximately 2.5 out of every 100,000 individuals, with women over 50 being six times more likely to experience it compared to men. While it shares some similarities with hemorrhoids, rectal prolapse is a distinct condition that requires proper diagnosis and treatment.

Types of Rectal Prolapse

There are three main types of rectal prolapse, categorized based on the extent of the rectum’s movement:

• Internal prolapse: The rectum begins to descend but has not yet emerged through the anus.
• Partial prolapse: Only a portion of the rectum protrudes through the anus.
• Complete prolapse: The entire rectum extends out through the anal opening.

Identifying Symptoms of Rectal Prolapse

The onset of rectal prolapse symptoms is typically gradual. Recognizing these signs early can lead to prompt treatment and better outcomes. Common symptoms include:

• A sensation of a bulge at the anus, often described as feeling like sitting on a ball
• Visible reddish-colored tissue protruding from the anus
• Rectal tissue that may emerge during bowel movements but can be manually repositioned
• Protrusion of rectal tissue during physical activities such as walking, sitting, or exercising
• Bleeding from the inner lining of the rectum
• Difficulty controlling bowel movements and gas
• Chronic constipation (affecting 30-67% of patients) or diarrhea (experienced by about 15% of patients)

Exploring the Causes of Rectal Prolapse

Rectal prolapse can be attributed to various medical conditions and factors. Understanding these causes is crucial for both prevention and treatment. Some of the primary causes include:

Nerve Damage

Damage to the nerves controlling the rectal and anal muscles can lead to rectal prolapse. This damage may result from:

• Pregnancy or difficult vaginal delivery
• Spinal injuries
• Pelvic area surgeries

Weakened Anal Sphincter

The anal sphincter is responsible for preventing involuntary stool passage. It may weaken due to:

• Pregnancy and childbirth
• Aging process

Chronic Constipation

Prolonged straining during bowel movements, especially over several years, can increase the likelihood of rectal prolapse.

Other Risk Factors

While not directly linked to rectal prolapse, certain conditions may elevate the risk:

• Chronic diarrhea
• Cystic fibrosis
• Dementia
• Spinal cord problems
• Stroke
• Hysterectomy

Differentiating Rectal Prolapse from Hemorrhoids

Rectal prolapse and hemorrhoids are often confused due to their similar symptoms. However, they are distinct conditions requiring different treatments. How can one differentiate between the two?

Rectal Prolapse

In rectal prolapse, the rectum itself has moved out of position. This can sometimes cause bleeding and discomfort.

Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the rectal or anal walls. They are more common in their milder forms and can cause pain, itching, and bleeding during bowel movements.

If you suspect either condition, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

Diagnostic Approaches for Rectal Prolapse

Proper diagnosis of rectal prolapse is essential for effective treatment. What methods do healthcare providers use to diagnose this condition?

• Physical examination: A doctor may ask the patient to strain as if having a bowel movement to observe any protrusion.
• Digital rectal examination: The physician inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to assess muscle tone and check for abnormalities.
• Imaging tests: X-rays, defecography, or MRI scans may be used to visualize the rectum’s position and movement.
• Colonoscopy: This procedure allows the doctor to examine the entire colon for any other potential issues.

Treatment Options for Rectal Prolapse

The treatment approach for rectal prolapse depends on the severity of the condition, the patient’s overall health, and their preferences. What are the primary treatment options available?

Non-Surgical Treatments

For mild cases, conservative management may be effective:

• Dietary changes to prevent constipation
• Pelvic floor exercises to strengthen muscles
• Stool softeners or laxatives to ease bowel movements
• Manual reduction of the prolapse

Surgical Interventions

Severe cases often require surgical correction. The two main surgical approaches are:

1. Abdominal surgery: The rectum is pulled back into its proper position through an incision in the abdomen. This can be done through open surgery or laparoscopically.
2. Perineal surgery: The prolapsed rectum is removed through the anus. This method is often preferred for older or higher-risk patients.

Post-Surgical Recovery and Care

After rectal prolapse surgery, patients typically require a hospital stay to recover and regain bowel function. How long does recovery usually take, and what does it involve?

• Hospital stay duration varies depending on the type of surgery performed
• Most patients fully recover and return to normal activities within 6 weeks
• Gradual transition from clear liquids to solid foods
• Strategies to prevent recurrence may include:
  • Staying hydrated
  • Consuming adequate fiber
  • Using stool softeners to prevent constipation

Preventing Rectal Prolapse: Lifestyle Modifications

While not all cases of rectal prolapse can be prevented, certain lifestyle changes may help reduce the risk or prevent recurrence. What steps can individuals take to minimize their risk of developing rectal prolapse?

• Maintain a high-fiber diet to promote regular bowel movements
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
• Avoid straining during bowel movements
• Practice pelvic floor exercises to strengthen the muscles
• Manage chronic conditions that may contribute to rectal prolapse
• Seek prompt medical attention for persistent digestive issues

By implementing these preventive measures and maintaining good overall health, individuals can potentially reduce their risk of experiencing rectal prolapse or its recurrence following treatment.

Rectal Prolapse in Children: A Special Consideration

While rectal prolapse is more commonly associated with older adults, it can also occur in children. How does pediatric rectal prolapse differ from adult cases?

Prevalence and Causes

Rectal prolapse is more common in the pediatric population than in adults. It may occur due to:

• Underdeveloped anorectal and pelvic muscles
• Frequent bowel movements caused by diarrheal infections
• Inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis

Treatment Approach

The approach to treating rectal prolapse in children often differs from that in adults:

• Conservative management is usually highly effective
• Up to 90% of pediatric cases can avoid surgery
• Treatment may focus on addressing underlying causes, such as diarrhea or constipation
• Pelvic floor exercises and dietary modifications may be recommended

Parents should be aware of the signs of rectal prolapse in children and seek medical attention if they notice any unusual symptoms during bowel movements.

Living with Rectal Prolapse: Coping Strategies and Support

Dealing with rectal prolapse can be challenging, both physically and emotionally. What strategies can help individuals cope with this condition and improve their quality of life?

Emotional Support

• Joining support groups for individuals with rectal prolapse or related conditions
• Seeking counseling to address any anxiety or depression related to the condition
• Open communication with family and close friends about the challenges faced

Practical Tips

• Planning bathroom breaks when going out to manage symptoms
• Carrying a small cushion for comfort when sitting for extended periods
• Wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to reduce pressure on the abdomen
• Maintaining a symptom diary to track progress and identify triggers

Ongoing Medical Care

• Regular follow-up appointments with healthcare providers
• Monitoring for any changes in symptoms or complications
• Discussing any concerns or new treatments with medical professionals

By implementing these coping strategies and maintaining open communication with healthcare providers, individuals with rectal prolapse can better manage their condition and improve their overall well-being.

Advances in Rectal Prolapse Research and Treatment

The field of rectal prolapse treatment is continually evolving, with researchers and medical professionals working to improve diagnostic techniques and treatment options. What are some of the recent advancements and areas of ongoing research in rectal prolapse management?

Improved Surgical Techniques

• Refinement of minimally invasive laparoscopic procedures
• Development of robotic-assisted surgical approaches for greater precision
• Exploration of new materials for mesh reinforcement in abdominal surgeries

Non-Surgical Interventions

• Investigation of novel biofeedback techniques for pelvic floor strengthening
• Research into the potential benefits of stem cell therapy for tissue regeneration
• Development of targeted medications to improve bowel function and reduce prolapse risk

Diagnostic Advancements

• Refinement of imaging techniques for more accurate diagnosis and treatment planning
• Exploration of genetic markers that may indicate increased susceptibility to rectal prolapse
• Development of AI-assisted diagnostic tools for earlier detection and intervention

As research in these areas progresses, individuals with rectal prolapse may benefit from more effective, less invasive treatments and improved long-term outcomes. Staying informed about these advancements can help patients and healthcare providers make more informed decisions about treatment options.

The Role of Diet and Nutrition in Managing Rectal Prolapse

Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in managing rectal prolapse and preventing its recurrence. How can dietary choices impact rectal prolapse, and what nutritional strategies can be employed to support treatment and recovery?

Fiber-Rich Foods

Increasing fiber intake is essential for promoting regular bowel movements and reducing strain during defecation. Good sources of fiber include:

• Whole grains (oats, quinoa, brown rice)
• Fruits (apples, pears, berries)
• Vegetables (broccoli, carrots, spinach)
• Legumes (beans, lentils, chickpeas)

Hydration

Adequate fluid intake is crucial for maintaining soft stools and preventing constipation. Recommendations include:

• Drinking at least 8 glasses of water daily
• Consuming hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumbers, and soups
• Limiting dehydrating beverages such as alcohol and caffeine

Probiotics and Gut Health

Supporting a healthy gut microbiome may help improve bowel function. Consider incorporating:

• Probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut
• Prebiotic foods that support beneficial gut bacteria, such as garlic, onions, and asparagus

Foods to Avoid

Certain foods may exacerbate symptoms or increase the risk of constipation. It’s generally advisable to limit:

• Processed and high-fat foods
• Excessive dairy products (for those with lactose intolerance)
• Spicy foods that may irritate the digestive system

By adopting a balanced, fiber-rich diet and maintaining proper hydration, individuals with rectal prolapse can support their digestive health and potentially improve their symptoms. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian before making significant dietary changes, especially for those with underlying health conditions or specific dietary requirements.

Symptoms, Surgery, Causes, and More

Rectal prolapse is a medical condition in which the rectum starts to push through the anus. It’s different from hemorrhoids, which are swollen veins around the rectum and anus.

The rectum is the last part of your large intestine, and the anus is the opening through which stool exits your body.

Rectal prolapse affects about 2.5 out of every 100,000 people. Women over age 50 are six times more likely than men to have this condition. Sometimes rectal prolapse is suspected, but the problem is actually a serious case of hemorrhoids.

Rectal prolapse can range from mild to severe. Mild cases can often be treated without surgery. Severe cases may require surgery.

Rectal prolapse is more common in the pediatric population than in adults. It may occur when anorectal and other pelvic muscles are not fully developed.

It can also occur when a child has frequent bowel movements which can happen due to diarrheal infections or inflammatory bowel disease such as ulcerative colitis. Conservative management is usually quite effective with up to 90% of the pediatric population avoiding surgery.

Rectal prolapse and hemorrhoids can both be uncomfortable and painful conditions. Rectal prolapse may initially feel like a bad case of hemorrhoids, and sometimes hemorrhoids on your anus may look like your rectum is emerging.

• Rectal prolapse. In rectal prolapse, the rectum has moved. Rectal prolapse can cause bleeding sometimes.
• Hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are actually swollen blood vessels in the walls of your rectum or anus. Hemorrhoids are quite common in their smaller, milder form. They can become painful and itchy and can leave red blood on the tissue when you wipe.

Read more: Why is there blood when you wipe?

If you suspect you have hemorrhoids or rectal prolapse, see a doctor. They can diagnose your condition and start the appropriate treatment.

There are three types of rectal prolapse. The type is identified by the movement of the rectum:

• Internal prolapse. The rectum starts to drop but has not yet pushed through the anus.
• Partial prolapse. Only part of the rectum has moved through the anus.
• Complete prolapse. The entire rectum extends out through the anus.

The symptoms of rectal prolapse tend to come on slowly. The first symptom you’ll notice is the feeling that there is a bulge at your anus. It may seem as though you are sitting on a ball.

With a mirror, you may be able to see a reddish-colored bulge peeking through or actually extending out of your anus.

Additional symptoms include:

• Part of the rectum may protrude during bowel movements but may be easily pushed back in place
• Physical activity, such as walking, sitting, and exercising, may also cause part of the rectum to push through your anus.
• There may be bleeding from the inner lining of the rectum.
• Eventually, you may have trouble controlling liquid or solid bowel movements and gas from your rectum.
• Chronic constipation occurs in 30 to 67 percent of people with rectal prolapse, and about 15 percent experience diarrhea.

Rectal prolapse can be caused by several medical conditions, including:

Nerve damage

If nerves that control the rectal and anal muscles are damaged, rectal prolapse can develop. These nerves can sometimes be damaged from:

• pregnancy or a difficult vaginal birth
• a spinal injury
• surgery in the pelvic area

Weakened anal sphincter

This is the muscle that prevents stool from involuntarily passing from your rectum. Common reasons this muscle may weaken are:

• pregnancy
• childbirth
• increased age

Chronic constipation

The strain of chronic bowel movement problems can make your rectum more likely to move down from its location. Straining while having bowel movements, if done often over a period of years, can also cause rectal prolapse.

While not directly linked to rectal prolapse, some conditions may increase the risk of it, including:

• chronic constipation
• chronic diarrhea
• cystic fibrosis
• dementia
• spinal cord problems
• stroke
• hysterectomy

Women over age 50 are also at an increased risk of rectal prolapse.

After rectal prolapse surgery, you may need to stay in the hospital to recover and regain bowel function. The amount of time you spend in the hospital can vary depending on the specific type of surgery you had.

Generally, most people are able to fully recover and return to their normal daily activities within 6 weeks of surgery.

During your hospital stay, you will slowly transition from drinking clear liquids back to eating solid foods. Your doctor may also advise you on strategies to avoid a recurrence or a return of rectal prolapse. These strategies may involve:

• staying hydrated
• eating enough fiber
• using a stool softener to prevent constipation

Surgery through the abdomen is performed to pull the rectum back up and into its proper position. It can be done with a large incision and open surgery, or it can be done laparoscopically, using a few incisions and specially designed smaller surgical tools.

Surgery from the region around the anus involves pulling part of the rectum out and surgically removing it. The rectum is then placed back inside and attached to the large intestine. This approach is usually performed in people who are not suitable candidates for surgery through their abdomen.

Discuss your treatment options with your doctor. If they recommend one type of surgery, you should feel comfortable asking why it’s recommended.

Your doctor will ask about your medical history and have you describe your symptoms.

They will also do a complete physical examination. Your doctor will observe your rectum and may place a gloved finger in your anus to check the health or strength of the anal sphincter and the rectum itself. During your exam, your doctor may ask you to squat and strain as though you were having a bowel movement.

Other tests may be performed to help diagnose rectal prolapse. Prior to these tests you may be asked to fast and/or clean your colon with enemas. These other tests include:

• Anal electromyography (EMG). This test measure how effective the muscles and nerves in your rectum are. Electrodes are placed a few inches into your rectum. Then the test is performed and only takes a few minutes.
• Anorectal manometry. A flexible, thermometer-sized tube that has a small, deflated balloon attached to the end is inserted into the rectum. While connected to a machine, the tube is placed in several areas of your rectum, and the response to pressure is measured.
• Barium enema. During this test, a chalky liquid containing barium is placed in your rectum. Barium shows up on X-rays producing images of the area.
• Colonoscopy. During a colonoscopy, a thin, flexible tube with a small camera at the end is inserted into the rectum so the healthcare professional can do a visual exam.
• Defecography. This test can use X-rays and/or MRI to monitor your colon as you have a bowel movement.
• Lower GI series. During this test, a chalky liquid containing barium is placed in your large intestine so that the area is visible on X-ray and images may be taken.
• Transit study. In this study, you swallow one or more capsules that contain markers that can be seen on X-rays. After you swallow the capsule, you go in for X-rays each of the next 5 days so the doctor can see exactly how the markers pass through your intestines.
• Other exams. Your doctor may want to perform urological or gynecological exams to see if there are any weak areas in your pelvic floor or if other organs, like the uterus, have prolapsed.

Preventing rectal prolapse is not always possible. You can reduce your risk if you maintain good intestinal health. To help avoid constipation:

• Make high fiber foods part of your regular diet, including:
  • fruits
  • vegetables
  • bran
  • beans
• Reduce the amount of processed food in your diet.
• Drink plenty of water and fluids every day.
• Exercise most, if not all, days of the week.
• Manage your stress with meditation or other relaxation techniques.

Medical emergency: Rectal strangulation

In very severe cases, rectal prolapse may cause strangulation, cutting off the blood supply to the part of the rectum that has pushed through the anus. This is considered a medical emergency that requires immediate surgical intervention.

Left untreated rectal strangulation can lead to gangrene and death.

Symptoms of this very rare occurrence may include:

• abdominal pain or discomfort
• incomplete bowel movements
• incontinence
• mass coming through the anus

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Rectal prolapse may be associated with several serious complications including:

• Ulcers. Ulcers in your rectum may cause bleeding and pain.
• Damage to the sphincter. Your sphincter is the ring-shaped muscle that opens and closes the anus, and if it is damaged the function may be affected.
• Bowel control issues. Rectal prolapse may lead to problems with bowel control, including fecal incontinence.
• Gangrene. If left untreated, rectal prolapse can cause strangulation of the rectum, cutting off the blood supply to the tissue, causing it to die, and leading to gangrene. This is a medical emergency requiring surgery.

The outlook is generally positive for someone undergoing rectal prolapse surgery. You’ll be on a diet of liquids and soft foods for a while, and you’ll need to take a stool softener at first. This is to prevent constipation or straining during a bowel movement.

The amount of time spent in the hospital after surgery depends on your health and the type of surgery you had. A full recovery can be expected in about 6 weeks.

Rectal prolapse is rare and can be uncomfortable and painful, but it’s treatable. The sooner you see a doctor about your symptoms, the easier the surgery and recovery will be.

Rectal Prolapse: Causes and Symptoms

Overstretched or weakened tissues around the rectum can lead to rectal prolapse.   

Rectal prolapse occurs when the rectum (the bottom part of the large intestine) slides out of its normal position, sometimes causing it to protrude from the anus. This condition develops when the tissue that holds the rectum in place is stretched excessively. When this happens, the normal bend of the rectum straightens, which may lead to difficulty controlling bowel movements.

There are three types of rectal prolapse—partial, complete and internal:

• A partial prolapse occurs when the lining of the rectum slides out of place and partially protrudes from the anus.
• A complete prolapse happens when the entire wall of the rectum slips out of position and protrudes from the anus.
• An internal prolapse occurs when the rectum, or a part of the large intestine, slides over another part of the rectum.

Rectal Prolapse Causes

Multiple factors can contribute to rectal prolapse, including:

• A history of straining during bowel movements
• Chronic constipation
• Weak pelvic floor muscles
• Nerve damage due to injuries, surgeries or pregnancy
• Malnutrition

Rectal prolapse can affect anyone, although it’s most common in adults over age 40 and children.

Rectal Prolapse Symptoms

Someone with rectal prolapse may experience:

• Fecal incontinence
• Rectal bleeding
• Rectal mucous discharge
• A constant need to have a bowel movement
• Pain and anal itching
• The appearance of a reddish bulge outside of the anus
• The sensation of sitting on a ball after defecating

Rectal Prolapse Diagnosis

Diagnosing rectal prolapse begins with a review of symptoms and a rectal exam. To confirm the diagnosis and rule out other pelvic floor disorders, one or more of the following tests may be performed:

• Anal electromyography (EMG)
• Anal ultrasound
• Anal manometry
• Colonoscopy
• Proctography

Rectal Prolapse Treatments

Rectal prolapse often goes away on its own. It can be treated at home through increased water intake and a change in diet that includes more fruit, vegetables and fibrous foods. But if a person’s condition does not improve, surgery may be recommended. One type of surgery that is commonly used to treat rectal prolapse is laparoscopic rectopexy, a minimally invasive procedure that repositions the prolapsed rectum with stitches.

If you have rectal prolapse, your condition can be evaluated and treated by experienced specialists at Tampa General Hospital’s Gastroenterology Institute.

Prolapse of internal organs

Prolapse of internal organs

Displacement of the location of the abdominal organs, and in particular their prolapse, leads to the emergence of many chronic diseases. Very often, people with prolapse suffer from pain in the abdominal cavity and in the pelvic area. As a rule, this condition is caused by metabolic diseases, improper postpartum recovery, age-related changes, hard physical labor, concomitant diseases, excess weight, etc. Omission is congenital, and sometimes acquired.

How can organ prolapse be diagnosed?

Unfortunately, prolapse of the internal organs does not have unambiguous symptoms that would make a doctor immediately suspect it. Almost any form of prolapse is characterized by complaints of constipation, decreased appetite, increased fatigue, and sleep disturbances.

Abdominal prolapse may have the following symptoms: pain in the abdomen and lumbar region, nausea, dizziness, palpitations, feeling of heaviness in the abdomen, fatigue, constipation, bloating. As a rule, women who did not pay due attention to postpartum recovery most often suffer from this ailment.

Intestinal prolapse is accompanied by dull pain in the right side of the abdomen, nagging pain in the lumbar region of the back, increased gas formation. Omission of the kidneys is characterized by pain in the lower back, renal colic, nausea and vomiting. Omission of the uterus and vagina, as a rule, is diagnosed without problems by gynecologists during examination. A woman, on the other hand, may feel heaviness in the lower abdomen, painful menstruation and problems with holding urine (for example, during sneezing or coughing), the development of colitis and constipation, discomfort during intercourse.

Ultrasound is a fairly reliable method for diagnosing prolapse. An experienced osteopath will easily determine the omission without additional research, simply by diagnosing.

What can be done? How is organ prolapse treated?

Conventional medicine offers 2 ways to treat prolapse of the internal organs: the use of a bandage or surgery. An alternative method is the osteopathic effect, which allows you to return the internal organs to their places and thereby really solve the problem. The omission of organs is always associated with a violation of their ligamentous system and a decrease in the tone of smooth muscles. The osteopath relieves spasm and hypertonicity, normalizes blood circulation and mobility, returns the sagging organ to its original place, restoring connections between all body systems. As a result of the work of an osteopath, the microcirculation of blood, lymph, metabolic processes and nerve conduction are normalized. When the organ returns to its place, the work of the whole organism is normalized.

Osteopathy is effective in prolapse of all internal organs – stomach, intestines, kidneys, spleen, organs of the reproductive system. Soft and painless effects, the absence of side effects and contraindications, combined with high efficiency, make osteopathy one of the best methods of prolapse treatment.

Make an appointment with an osteopath

Small bowel prolapse – signs, symptoms, who treats, who treats

Small bowel prolapse, also called an enterocele, occurs when the small intestine descends into the lower part of the pelvic cavity and presses on the upper part of the vagina, forming a bulge. The word “prolapse” means slipping or falling out. Childbirth, aging, and other processes that put pressure on the pelvic floor weaken the muscles and ligaments that support the pelvic organs, which increases the likelihood of prolapse of the small intestine. Self-help measures and other non-surgical methods are often effective in treating small bowel prolapse. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

Symptoms of small bowel prolapse

Mild small bowel prolapse may not cause any symptoms. However, if there is significant prolapse, the patient may experience:

• Pulling sensation in the pelvis
• Feeling of pelvic fullness, heaviness or pain
• Low back pain
• Soft tissue protrusion in the vagina
• Discomfort and pain in the vagina during intercourse.

Many women with small bowel prolapse also have prolapse of other pelvic organs, such as the bladder, uterus, or rectum.

Which doctor diagnoses and treats small bowel prolapse

Consult a gynecologist if there are signs of an enterocele that bother you.

Causes of small bowel prolapse

Increased pressure on the pelvic floor is the main cause of any form of pelvic organ prolapse. Conditions and activities that can cause or contribute to small bowel prolapse include:

• Pregnancy and childbirth
• Chronic constipation or straining during bowel movements
• Chronic cough or bronchitis
• Weight lifting
• Overweight or obese.

Enterocele and pregnancy and childbirth

Pregnancy and childbirth are the most common causes of pelvic organ prolapse. The muscles, ligaments, and fascia that hold and support the vagina stretch and weaken during pregnancy, childbirth, and labor.

Not all babies who give birth develop pelvic organ prolapse. Some women have very strong pelvic support muscles, ligaments, and fascia and never have problems. Women who have never given birth may also develop pelvic organ prolapse.

Risk factors

Factors that increase the risk of small bowel prolapse include:

• Pregnancy and childbirth. Vaginal delivery of one or more children weakens the supporting structures of the pelvic floor, increasing the risk of prolapse. The more pregnancies, the higher the risk of developing any type of pelvic organ prolapse. Women who have had only a caesarean section have a lower risk of developing prolapse
• Age. Small bowel prolapse and other types of pelvic organ prolapse are more likely to occur with age
• Surgical operation on the pelvic organs. Hysterectomy or surgical procedures to treat urinary incontinence may increase the risk of small bowel prolapse
• Increased intra-abdominal pressure. Being overweight increases pressure in the abdominal cavity, which increases the risk of small bowel prolapse. Other factors that increase blood pressure include chronic cough and straining during bowel movements
• Smoking. Smoking has been linked to the development of prolapse because smokers often cough, increasing intra-abdominal pressure
• Connective tissue diseases. The patient may be genetically predisposed to prolapse due to weak connective tissue in the pelvis

How a doctor diagnoses an enterocele

To confirm the diagnosis of small bowel prolapse, a gynecologist performs an examination. During the examination, he will ask you to take a deep breath and hold your breath, taking in air, as if with a bowel movement, which can lead to the small intestine protruding downward. If the doctor cannot confirm the prolapse in the supine position, he will repeat the examination when the patient is standing.

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Scientific sources

1. Barinova M.N., Solopova A.E., Tupikina N.V., Kasyan G.R., Pushkar D.Yu. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for pelvic organ prolapse // Obstetrics, gynecology, reproductive medicine. 2014. – V. 8 – No. 1. -WITH. 37-46.
2. Derinov A.A. Features of the examination and surgical correction of posterior pelvic floor prolapse in women: Ph.D. dis. cand. honey. Sciences. -M., 2012. – 16 p.
3. Korshunov M.Yu., Saztkina E.I. The PD-QOL questionnaire is a validated method for assessing the symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunctions and quality of life in patients with pelvic organ prolapse. Zhurn akush i zhene bol. – 2008. – T. 57. – No. 3. – S. 86-93.
4. Babanin A.V. Magnetic resonance imaging in the diagnosis and evaluation of the results of surgical treatment of pelvic prolapse in women: Ph.D. dis. cand. honey. Sciences. – Voronezh, 2005. – 27 p.
5. Ishchenko A.I., Aleksandrov L.S., Chushkov Yu.V. Pathophysiological aspects of pelvic floor dysfunction // Russian Medical Forum. – M., 1/2008. – S. 16-23.
6. Pritula N.A ‘Enteroscopy in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the small intestine // Cand. Diss. ML 998; With. 187.
7. Strekalovsky V.P., Kolesnikova G.D., Arablinsky V.M. Enteroscopy // Klin.med. 1981;5:51-54
8. Ivanova E.V., Timofeev M.E., Yudin O.I., Fedorov E.D. Possibilities of modern methods of enteroscopy in the diagnosis of diseases of the small intestine // Materials of the educational course for doctors “Inflammatory bowel diseases in the XXI century”. – 2010. – S.50-58.
9. Krieger PA Video capsule enteroscopy in the complex diagnosis of surgical diseases of the small intestine: Diss. cand. honey. Sciences: 14.00.27/ P. A. Krieger; Ros. state honey. un-t. – Moscow, 2007. – P.112.
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Useful information

Rectal prolapse (rectal prolapse)

Rectal prolapse (rectal prolapse) occurs when part of the lower segment (rectum) of the colon protrudes beyond the muscular opening at the end of the digestive tract (anus).

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Cystocele (prolapse of the vagina)

Anterior vaginal prolapse, also known as cystocele or bladder prolapse, occurs when the bladder descends from its normal position in the pelvis and presses against the vaginal wall.

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anal cancer

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