Rectal prolapse is the protrusion of the rectum through the anus, causing a visible lump, mucus, bleeding and difficulty controlling motions. It is corrected surgically — often by a keyhole (laparoscopic) operation that lifts and secures the rectum to restore normal function.
A prolapse that cannot be pushed back, severe pain or discolouration
| Definition | Protrusion of the rectum through the anus |
| Who | More common in older adults and women; linked to chronic straining |
| See a surgeon | A lump that protrudes on straining, leakage or recurrent bleeding |
| Urgency flags | A prolapse that cannot be pushed back, severe pain or discolouration |
What is rectal prolapse?
Rectal prolapse occurs when the rectum loses its normal attachments and telescopes down through the anus. It may start as something that only appears on straining and reduces on its own, and progress to a prolapse that stays out and needs to be pushed back.
Symptoms & causes
Common features are a protruding lump after passing stool, mucus discharge, bleeding, a feeling of incomplete emptying and, over time, leakage or poor bowel control. It is associated with long-term constipation and straining, weak pelvic-floor support and previous childbirth.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is usually clear on examination, sometimes asking the patient to strain to demonstrate the prolapse. A colonoscopy may be advised to exclude other rectal conditions, and specialised tests assess pelvic-floor function before surgery.
Treatment options
Rectal prolapse is corrected surgically. A laparoscopic (keyhole) rectopexy lifts the rectum and secures it in place, restoring normal anatomy and bowel control with a quicker recovery than open surgery. The exact operation is tailored to the patient's age and fitness.
How we treat Rectal Prolapse
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Last reviewed: June 2026Frequently asked questions
No. Piles are swollen blood vessels, whereas rectal prolapse is the full thickness of the rectum protruding — though they can look similar to patients and should be assessed by a specialist.
Keyhole (laparoscopic) repair is minimally invasive, restores normal anatomy and offers a faster recovery than traditional open surgery.
Many patients notice improved control once the rectum is secured, although recovery of full function can take time after long-standing prolapse.
Over time it tends to worsen, with increasing leakage and risk of the prolapse becoming trapped, so early assessment is advised.
Dr. Avinash Tank, MCh surgical gastroenterologist at Dwarika Hospital, Ahmedabad, performs keyhole rectopexy for rectal prolapse with a faster recovery than open surgery.
रेक्टल प्रोलैप्स को सर्जरी से ठीक किया जाता है — लैप्रोस्कोपिक रेक्टोपेक्सी सामान्य शारीरिक संरचना को बहाल करती है और ओपन सर्जरी से तेज़ रिकवरी देती है।
Haan, surgery hi effective ilaj hai. Laparoscopic rectopexy se normal anatomy restore hoti hai aur recovery bhi fast hoti hai.
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