Laparoscopic management of persistent complete rectal prolapse in children

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Gastroenterology
• Minimally Invasive Surgery

Background:

• Rectal prolapse is a common pediatric condition with varied surgical treatments.
• Laparoscopic surgery is emerging as a standard for full-thickness rectal prolapse in children.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the last 5 years of experience with laparoscopic management of complete rectal prolapse in children.
• To evaluate the effectiveness and outcomes of laparoscopic approaches.

Main Methods:

• 40 children with complete rectal prolapse and fecal incontinence underwent laparoscopic surgery.
• Procedures included laparoscopic suture rectopexy, mesh rectopexy, resection rectopexy, and levatorplasty.
• Pre- and postoperative electromyogram studies assessed pelvic floor muscle function.

Main Results:

• All procedures were completed laparoscopically with no intraoperative complications.
• Median postoperative hospitalization was 3 days.
• Significant improvement in continence scores and pelvic floor muscle function was observed, with no recurrences at a 36-month follow-up.

Conclusions:

• Laparoscopy is a safe and effective treatment for pediatric complete rectal prolapse.
• The approach leads to improved functional outcomes, reduced pain, and shorter hospital stays.
• It offers a successful alternative to multiple surgical interventions.