Best Rectal prolapse Doctors in Chennai

Rectal prolapse is a medical condition where the rectum, the final portion of the large intestine, protrudes through the anus. This condition typically arises from weakened pelvic floor muscles and ligaments, often due to factors such as chronic constipation, childbirth or pregnancy strain, neurological disorders, or ageing. The consequences of rectal prolapse can be uncomfortable, leading to issues like difficulty controlling bowel movements, bleeding, and pain.

Chennai has its share of cases related to rectal prolapse. Patients in Chennai have access to some of the best doctors and surgeons specialising in treating rectal prolapse at Apollo Hospitals.

Types/Stages of Rectal Prolapse

Rectal prolapse varies in severity and can be classified into three main types:

• Internal Prolapse: In this type, the rectum starts to drop or protrude into the anal canal but does not extend outside the anus.

• Partial Prolapse: In this type, only a portion of the rectum protrudes through the anus.

• Complete Prolapse: This is a severe case where the entire rectum extends out through the anus.

Symptoms of Rectal Prolapse

People experiencing symptoms of rectal prolapse can consult with some of the best doctors specialising in rectal prolapse treatment in Chennai. The symptoms include:

• Feeling a bulge at the anus

• Difficulty controlling bowel movements

• Bleeding from the rectum

• Experiencing pain during bowel movements

• Discharge of mucus from the anus

• Sensation of incomplete bowel evacuation

Tests to Diagnose Rectal Prolapse

The following tests are typically recommended by doctors specialising in rectal prolapse disease treatment:

• Physical examination: The doctor visually inspects and may manually assess the rectum to observe the prolapsed tissue.

• Anorectal manometry: This test evaluates the function and coordination of the muscles involved in bowel movements, assessing for issues like weakness or dysfunction.

• Defecography: This imaging study involves X-rays or fluoroscopy to visualise the rectum and surrounding structures during the act of defecation.

• Endoanal ultrasound: This imaging technique uses sound waves to create detailed images of the anal sphincters, rectum, and nearby tissues.

• Colonoscopy: This procedure allows visualisation of the entire colon and rectum using a flexible scope with a camera.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Rectal Prolapse at Apollo Hospitals, Chennai

At Apollo Hospitals, patients can expect personalised care from some of the best doctors specialising in rectal prolapse treatment in Chennai. The treatment options include:

• Conservative measures: For mild cases, doctors may recommend dietary changes, pelvic floor exercises, and stool softeners to alleviate symptoms and improve bowel function.

• Surgical repair: For moderate to severe cases, surgical options include abdominal rectopexy to secure the rectum via the abdomen and perineal procedures (Altemeier or Delorme) performed through the anus.

• Laparoscopic or robotic approaches: Minimally invasive surgical techniques for rectal prolapse repair offer smaller incisions, less post-operative pain, and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.

• Biofeedback therapy: This specialised therapy helps improve pelvic floor muscle coordination and function.

• Sacral nerve stimulation (SNS): In cases where conservative measures and standard surgical options are not effective, SNS may be considered. It involves the implantation of a device that stimulates the sacral nerves to improve bowel function and reduce prolapse symptoms.