Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 5, 2026
12:10
Retzius-Sparing Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy
Published on: May 19, 2022
Rectocele repair by anterolateral rectopexy: long-term functional outcome
D M J Oom1, M P Gosselink, J J van Wijk
1Colorectal Research Group of the Department of Surgery, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
Summary
Anterolateral rectopexy effectively corrects rectoceles without causing new sexual pain. However, obstructed defecation symptoms often persist after the procedure.
Area of Science:
- Colorectal surgery
- Pelvic floor disorders
- Female sexual health
Background:
- Rectoceles are common causes of pelvic discomfort and obstructed defecation (OD).
- Existing rectocele repair methods can lead to de novo dyspareunia in up to 40% of patients.
- Investigating alternative surgical techniques is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of anterolateral rectopexy for rectocele repair.
- To determine if anterolateral rectopexy causes de novo dyspareunia.
- To assess long-term anatomical and functional outcomes of the procedure.
Main Methods:
- 33 women with symptomatic rectoceles underwent anterolateral rectopexy.
- Pre- and post-operative evacuation proctography (EP) assessed rectocele recurrence.
- Standardized questionnaires evaluated pelvic discomfort, OD, and dyspareunia.
Main Results:
- Anterolateral rectopexy achieved anatomical correction in most patients.
- No patients reported de novo dyspareunia following the procedure.
- Obstructed defecation symptoms persisted in 55% of patients with adequate anatomical repair.
Conclusions:
- Anterolateral rectopexy is an effective surgical option for rectocele repair, avoiding dyspareunia.
- While anatomically successful, the procedure does not fully resolve obstructed defecation symptoms in the majority of cases.
- Further research may be needed to address persistent OD symptoms post-rectocele repair.