Laparoscopically-assisted resection rectopexy for rectal prolapse: ten years' experience.

Area of Science:

• Colorectal Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Gastrointestinal Procedures

Background:

• Rectal prolapse is a condition requiring surgical intervention.
• Transabdominal approaches are common for full-thickness rectal prolapse repair.
• Laparoscopic techniques offer potential advantages over open surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To audit single-center experience with laparoscopic resection rectopexy for full-thickness rectal prolapse.
• To evaluate clinical outcomes and long-term results of the procedure.
• To assess the learning curve and impact of experience on surgical outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Prospective data collection on operative time, postoperative recovery, morbidity, and mortality.
• Follow-up via questionnaires and patient contact to assess long-term outcomes.
• Statistical analysis using Kruskal-Wallis test to compare quartiles of experience.

Main Results:

• 117 patients underwent laparoscopic resection rectopexy; median follow-up was 62 months.
• Operating time decreased significantly with experience (180 min to 110 min).
• Overall morbidity was 9%, with 80% symptom alleviation and low recurrence rates (2.5% full-thickness).

Conclusions:

• Laparoscopic resection rectopexy yields favorable functional outcomes and low recurrence for rectal prolapse.
• Surgical experience is crucial for optimizing operating time.
• The minimally invasive approach is recommended for transabdominal rectal prolapse repair, emphasizing laparoscopic training.