[Surgical options in the treatment of rectal prolapse: indications, techniques and results]

Two different approaches can be distinguished in the surgical treatment of rectal prolapse, i. e. the transabdominal route and the perineal procedures. The following article deals with both operative options with a detailed discussion of the Delorme's operation and the perineal rectosigmoidectomy, also known as the Altemeier procedure for the perineal techniques. Regarding abdominal operations simple rectopexy is compared with operations including bowel resection including minimally invasive approaches. In general, perineal procedures for full-thickness rectal prolapse cause less morbidity compared with abdominal operations. They are especially indicated in the elderly and /or high-risk patients. Recurrences, on the other hand, are usually encountered more often following local techniques as compared with abdominal operations. It can be concluded that perineal as well as abdominal procedures remain important options in the surgical treatment of rectal prolapse and should be part of the armamentarium of colorectal surgeons.