Laparoscopic resection rectopexy for rectal prolapse

The laparoscopic approach in suture rectopexy with sigmoid resection is appealing as surgery is mainly confined to the pelvis.

The procedure is performed in modified lithotomy position using five trocars. In the case reported, the inferior mesenteric artery is divided distally to the left colic artery branch. The sigmoid colon is mobilized medially and may be mobilized laterally up to the descending colon, depending on the extent of resection. The splenic flexure remains in place. The rectum is mobilized from the presacral fascia down to the pelvic floor, sparing the hypogastric nerves. The rectum is transected in its upper third and the colonic stump pulled outside after enlarging the left lower abdominal incision to a length of 5 cm. The colorectal anastomosis is established intracorporeally in a double-stapling technique. Three 2-0 braided nonabsorbable sutures are placed to attach the right lateral stalks of the rectum to the presacral fascia. Proctoscopic examination has to ensure that there is no luminal compromise or air leakage.

The videotape reports about a 37-year-old male patient with a rectal prolapse of 8 cm in length. First symptoms had occurred in childhood. He reported about temporary constipation and repeated rectal bleeding. During surgery, an elongated sigmoid was found. Laparoscopic sigmoid resection and suture rectopexy were carried out. There were no intraoperative or postoperative complications. The patient was discharged from the hospital on the sixth postoperative day.

Laparoscopic resection rectopexy is safely feasible as a minimally-invasive treatment option for rectal prolapse.