Mumbai: Doctors treat 60-year-old man for severe rectal prolapse through surgery 

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Doctors in Mumbai have given a new lease of life to a 60-year-old man who had been experiencing severe rectal prolapse underwent minimally invasive surgery. His condition caused the rectum to protrude completely through the anus during bowel movements, affecting his comfort and daily life.

What is rectal prolapse? 

Rectal prolapse occurs when the rectum loses its normal support and slips down through the anus. The condition can cause discomfort, difficulty passing stools and problems with bowel control. If left untreated, prolonged prolapse may also affect the functioning of the anal sphincter.

Following the necessary pre-operative investigations, the patient was diagnosed with a large rectal prolapse and advised to undergo surgery.

Treatment of the condition

Doctors at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, treated him with laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy, a minimally invasive procedure performed through small abdominal incisions. During the surgery, a mesh was placed along the front of the rectum and secured to the sacrum, the bone at the base of the spine, to lift and support the rectum. The pelvic floor was also supported as part of the procedure.

According to Dr Sanjay Sonar, consultant general Surgery and laparoscopy, at the city hospital, one of the key considerations during the procedure was preserving the pelvic nerves. These nerves play an important role in bowel and bladder control, as well as sexual function. Avoiding unnecessary dissection around them is therefore an important consideration during pelvic surgery.

“Severe rectal prolapse can significantly affect a person’s quality of life, particularly when it occurs repeatedly during bowel movements. In this case, we used a laparoscopic approach to correct the prolapse while taking care to preserve the surrounding pelvic nerves. Along with surgical treatment, patients must also be counselled on maintaining healthy bowel habits and avoiding excessive straining during recovery,” said Dr Sonar.

Rectal prolapse is more common with increasing age, and can affect both men and women. Factors such as weakened pelvic floor support, chronic constipation and repeated straining may contribute to the condition. Persistent symptoms should be evaluated by a medical professional to determine the most appropriate treatment.

Recovery and long-term management also depend on maintaining soft, regular stools, staying adequately hydrated, consuming sufficient dietary fibre and avoiding excessive straining. Following medical advice on bowel habits and post-operative care can help support recovery and reduce the risk of recurrence.