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Rectal Prolapse

What is rectal prolapse? 


Rectal prolapse is also known as partial prolapse or mucosal prolapse. 

The rectum is the lower portion of the large intestine that meets up with the anus. When the rectum slips through the anus and it is exposed, this is known as rectal prolapse. 

What causes rectal prolapse?  


Several factors can cause rectal prolapse. These include chronic constipation or diarrhea, old age, straining during bowel movement, nerve damage, weakened muscles and other diseases such as cystic fibrosis. 

What are the symptoms of rectal prolapse?  


A bulging sensation, pain, bleeding, incontinence and a worsening prolapse are all potential symptoms. 

What are rectal prolapse care options? 


In many cases, rectal prolapse can be treated by:  

  • Avoiding straining while stooling.
  • Avoiding prolonged sitting on the toilet.
  • Avoiding constipation using laxative and stool softening medications.
  • Pushing the rectum back into place by hand.

After evaluation, there are situations where surgery to repair the rectal prolapse will be necessary. This is usually same-day surgery, and your child will be able to go home the day of surgery.

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We're here to help you. Contact us for more information about the Comprehensive Colorectal Center at Children's Mercy.

Rectal Prolapse Repair Surgery


What is the goal of surgery to repair rectal prolapse?


The goal of surgery to correct rectal prolapse is to prevent the condition from happening again.

How is rectal prolapse surgery repair performed?


The surgeons at Children’s Mercy Kansas City offer various cutting-edge techniques ranging from minimally invasive same-day surgery to intra-abdominal laparoscopic repairs. We will discuss the best repair options for your child with you.

Our team then follows the child to be sure the repair heals properly.

What are the benefits of rectal prolapse repair surgery?


Rectal prolapse repair surgery offers patients a potential cure and reduces the risk of prolapse happening again.

Your care team at the Comprehensive Colorectal Center


Children with this condition can be treated at the Comprehensive Colorectal Center. Your care team will work with you to develop the right treatment plan for your child.

Children's Mercy is an American College of Surgeons Verified Center

Some children can be treated through surgery. This is usually a same day surgery case and your child will be able to go home the day or surgery. We specialize in minimally invasive surgical approach to this surgical problem.  Children's Mercy provides the highest level of surgical care and is a verified Children's Surgery Center.

Colorectal Center
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