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Updated: Jul 4, 2026
03:49
Anogenital Distance and Perineal Measurements of the Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) Quantification System
Published on: September 20, 2018
Overt rectal prolapse and fecal incontinence
Laurent Siproudhis1, Marianne Eléouet, Agathe Rousselle
1Gastroenterology Unit, Rennes University Hospital, Rennes, France. laurent.siproudhis@chu-rennes.fr
Diseases of the Colon and Rectum
|June 12, 2008
Summary
Fecal incontinence in rectal prolapse patients is linked to age over 45 and prior hemorrhoid surgery. Anal sphincter defects are common in those with incontinence.
Area of Science:
- Colorectal surgery
- Gastroenterology
- Pelvic floor disorders
Background:
- Rectal prolapse is often linked to fecal incontinence, but the exact relationship requires further investigation.
- Understanding contributing factors to fecal incontinence in rectal prolapse patients is crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate fecal incontinence in patients with rectal prolapse.
- To identify risk factors and associated physiological changes in patients with rectal prolapse and fecal incontinence.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 88 consecutive patients with overt rectal prolapse.
- Comparison of patients with and without fecal incontinence, including history, anal physiology, and imaging.
- Logistic regression analyses to determine significant factors.
Main Results:
- Age over 45 (OR 4.51) and previous hemorrhoidectomy (OR 9.05) were significant risk factors for fecal incontinence.
- Incontinent patients showed a significantly higher incidence of internal anal sphincter defects (60% vs. 6.2%).
- No significant differences were found in parity, stool frequency, symptom duration, dyschezia, or need for digital defecation assistance.
Conclusions:
- Age and prior hemorrhoid surgery are key factors to consider in fecal incontinence associated with rectal prolapse.
- Anal weakness and internal anal sphincter defects are prevalent in incontinent patients with rectal prolapse.
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