Clinical and functional results of abdominal rectopexy for complete rectal prolapse

Between 1977 and 1987, 53 patients underwent polyvinyl alcohol sponge rectopexy for complete rectal prolapse. The mean follow-up period was 36.7 months. Full thickness prolapse recurred in two patients (3.8 per cent). Infection around the prosthesis and faecal impaction developed in two patients each. Continence improved significantly after operation, particularly in those under 70 years of age (P = 0.028, chi 2 test) and nulliparous women (P = 0.026, chi 2 test). Bowel function was generally unchanged after rectopexy; in particular only eight patients (15 per cent) had significant postoperative constipation.