Rectopexy Surgery In Dubai For Rectum Extends Through Anus
Rectal prolapse surgery, or Rectopexy, is a surgical procedure to correct rectal prolapse.
This condition arises when the rectum extends through the anus, causing discomfort and functional problems. The condition may arise due to aging, pregnancy, or other factors.
If left untreated, rectal prolapse can worsen over time, causing complications such as pain, incontinence, or constipation. Here’s a detailed look at what rectal prolapse surgery involves and what you need to know about the procedure.
What is Rectal Prolapse Surgery (Rectopexy)?
Rectal prolapse surgery is designed to address and correct rectal prolapse, where the rectum slips out of its normal position and extends through the anus. The condition can lead to sensations of pressure or a visible bulge in the anus after bowel movements.
While rectal prolapse itself is not an immediate medical emergency, it can progressively deteriorate without surgical intervention. The surgery aims to reposition the rectum and secure it in place, alleviating pain and preventing complications related to bowel function.
Who Needs Rectal Prolapse Surgery?
Rectal prolapse is relatively rare, affecting about 0.5% of people. Rectal prolapse is more common in women than in men. It can occur at any age but is more common in individuals over 50 and those assigned female at birth. In adults, untreated rectal prolapse can lead to severe complications.
Conversely, in children, the condition often resolves with treatment of the underlying cause, such as chronic constipation or diarrhea, and rarely requires surgery.
Types of Rectal Prolapse Surgeries (Rectopexies)
Rectal prolapse surgery can be performed through two main approaches:
1- Abdominal Procedures
- Abdominal Rectopexy with Possible Bowel Resection: An incision is made in the abdomen to access the rectum. The rectum is then lifted and secured to the back wall of the pelvis using stitches or a mesh sling. This method may also include bowel resection to remove part of the large intestine, which can help alleviate chronic constipation.
- Laparoscopic Rectopexy: This minimally invasive approach uses a laparoscope—a thin tube with a camera—inserted through small abdominal incisions. The rectum is secured through these tiny openings, potentially accompanied by bowel resection. Laparoscopic rectopexy recovery time typically ranges from a few weeks to a few months, depending on individual factors and adherence to post-surgical care instructions.
- Robotic Rectopexy: Similar to laparoscopic Rectopexy, this procedure uses robotic assistance to perform the surgery. It also involves securing the rectum and may include bowel resection or mesh placement if needed.
2- Perineal Procedures
- Altemeier Procedure: In this method, the rectum and a portion of the sigmoid colon are pulled through the anus and removed. The remaining rectum is then reattached to the large intestine, with possible tightening of the pelvic floor muscles (levatorplasty).
- Delorme’s Procedure: Suitable for more petite or mucosal prolapses, this technique involves removing the lining of the rectum and folding over the muscular layer. The rectum is then stitched in place within the anal canal.
Preparation for Rectal Prolapse Surgery Or Rectopexy in Dubai
Before undergoing rectal prolapse surgery, follow your healthcare provider’s instructions which may include:
- Dietary Changes: Consuming only clear liquids for a specified period before the surgery.
- Medication Adjustments: Stopping certain medications that might affect the procedure.
- Bowel Preparation: To maintain regularity and facilitate a smooth recovery, bowel movement after Rectopexy may require the use of laxatives or prescribed medications.
What to Expect During and After Surgery?
During Surgery
The choice of surgical technique will depend on your overall health and the severity of the prolapse. All procedures use General anesthesia to ensure comfort and pain-free.
Post-Surgery Recovery
- Hospital Stay: Recovery time varies; expect a hospital stay of 2-3 days for perineal procedures and up to a week for abdominal surgeries. Discharge depends on tolerating solid foods and passing gas or stool.
- Pain Management: Post-operative discomfort is expected; your healthcare team will relieve pain.
- Diet and Activity: Diet after Rectopexy should focus on high-fiber foods and plenty of fluids to promote bowel regularity and prevent constipation during the recovery period. Dietary adjustments are necessary to prevent constipation, and physical activity will be limited during recovery.
What are rectopexy complications?
Abdominal Rectopexy, involving one large or several small incisions, is riskier than perineal surgery but generally reduces the chance of prolapse recurrence. Common complications include:
- Anal fistulas
- Anastomotic leaks
- Intestinal obstruction
- Sexual dysfunction
- Worsening constipation
Proctopexy vs. Rectopexy
Proctopexy and Rectopexy are often used interchangeably, but there are differences. Proctopexy typically involves anchoring the rectum to the pelvic wall without fully addressing the underlying prolapse.
Conversely, Rectopexy involves more comprehensive procedures to address both the prolapse and any supporting structures.
Rectal prolapse surgery, or Rectopexy, is an effective treatment for correcting rectal prolapse and improving quality of life. The choice between abdominal and perineal approaches depends on individual factors, including the severity of the prolapse and overall health.
Understanding the procedure, preparation, and recovery process can help you make informed decisions and achieve the best possible outcomes.
For personalized advice, consult Dr. Nikolas Valsamidis for Rectopexy in Dubai.
Dr. Nikolas Valsamidis provides expert, personalized care with cutting-edge laparoscopic solutions for rectal prolapse in Dubai. He will craft the most effective treatment plan tailored to your needs.
FAQ
1. How Do You Prepare for a Rectopexy?
Preparation for Rectopexy involves several steps:
- Preoperative Assessment: Your surgeon will evaluate your overall health, including any underlying medical conditions. To evaluate the extent of the prolapse, imaging studies like CT scans or MRIs may be conducted.
- Dietary Adjustments: You may need to follow a special diet and use bowel-cleansing preparations to ensure your bowel is clear before surgery.
- Medication Review: Certain medications, especially blood thinners, may need to be adjusted or stopped before the procedure to reduce the risk of bleeding.
- Preoperative Instructions: You will be given detailed guidelines about fasting and other preparations to follow before surgery to ensure everything proceeds smoothly.
2. What Are the Contraindications for Rectopexy?
Contraindications for Rectopexy include:
- Severe Comorbid Conditions: Conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes, heart disease, or severe pulmonary issues can increase surgical risks and may necessitate alternative treatments.
- Active Infections: Any active infections, especially in the rectal area or abdomen, can pose significant risks during surgery and may require treatment before Rectopexy can be performed.
- Inadequate Bowel Preparation: Failure to adequately prepare the bowel can complicate the procedure and increase the risk of post-operative complications.
3. What to Expect After Rectopexy?
Post-operative expectations include:
- Hospitalization: Following the surgery, you will stay in the hospital for a few days to ensure your recovery is progressing well and to manage any urgent issues.
- Pain and Discomfort: Pain management will be provided to help you cope with post-surgical discomfort. You may experience some swelling and bruising around the incision site.
- Diet and Bowel Movements: Initially, you will be on a liquid diet, gradually progressing to soft and regular foods. Changes in bowel movements are common, and you may need to manage constipation or diarrhea with dietary adjustments and medications.
- Activity Restrictions: To allow proper healing, you will need to limit your physical activities for a period. Follow your surgeon’s recommendations for resuming normal activities and exercise.
4. What Are the Complications of Rectopexy Mesh?
If a mesh is used during the rectopexy procedure, potential complications include:
- Mesh Erosion: The mesh may erode into surrounding tissues, causing pain and potentially leading to further complications.
- Infection: There is a risk of infection at the mesh site, which can lead to inflammation and additional discomfort.
- Pain: Chronic pain can occur if the mesh irritates nearby tissues or nerves.
