Overview

Rectal prolapse is a condition where a portion of the wall of the rectum prolapses or falls through the anal canal. The rectal tissue can be felt or visualized outside of the anus. This typically occurs after straining to pass a bowel movement. Rectal prolapse is more common in elderly females but may occur at any age and in both sexes.

Symptoms

Symptoms of rectal prolapse include a mucus-like discharge, rectal bleeding, incontinence of fecal material and a tissue mass protruding from the anus.

Testing

Diagnosis is most commonly made by physical examination after the patient has strained to pass a stool. 

Treatment

Treatment of symptomatic rectal prolapse typically requires surgical repair.