[Surgical therapy of rectal prolapse using rectopexy and resection. Effect of resection treatment on postoperative constipation and sphincter muscle function--a follow-up study of 112 patients]

Abstract

Between 1985 and 1991, 112 patients underwent posterior abdominal rectopexy (n = 59 Ivalon sponge, n = 53 Vicryl-rectopexy) for complete rectal prolapse. The follow-up period was 3 months to 9 1/2 years. 25 patients with severe constipation and rectal prolapse were treated by rectopexy combined with colectomy (left colectomy n = 18, sigmoidectomy n = 3, ileo-sigmoidostomy n = 4). Left colectomy combined with Ivalon or Vicryl-rectopexy does not seem to increase operative and postoperative morbidity but tends to diminish constipation in 84% of patients. There were no complications attributable to bowel resection or anastomosis. Following abdominal rectopexy without resection constipation was reduced 7.5% only, the bowel function was unchanged in 69% and obstipation was improved after the operation in 23%. In the group of patients without evident constipation (n = 74) treated with synchrone resection has no benefit with regard to the new occurred constipation, recurrence prolapse and continence ability. Infection around the prosthesis developed in 1.5% in the resection group, and in 2.1% in the rectopexy alone group. The prolapse recurrence rate was 2.6%. Conclusion. Resection in conjunction with abdominal rectopexy tends to diminish postoperative constipation does not seem to increase operative morbidity, and is indicated in patients with constipation only.