Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 20, 2026

Murine Ileocolic Bowel Resection with Primary Anastomosis
Published on: October 29, 2014
Changes in bowel symptoms 1 year after rectocele repair
Vivian W Sung1, Charles R Rardin, Christina A Raker
1Division of Urogynecology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA.
Objective:
We sought to evaluate changes in bowel symptoms after rectocele repair and identify risk factors for persistent symptoms.
Study Design:
We conducted ancillary analysis of a randomized surgical trial for rectocele repair. Subjects underwent examinations and completed questionnaires for bowel symptoms at baseline and 12 months postoperatively. Outcomes included resolution, persistence, or de novo bowel symptoms. We used multiple logistic regression to identify risk factors for bowel symptom persistence.
Results:
A total of 160 women enrolled: 139 had baseline bowel symptoms and 85% had 12-month data. The prevalence of bowel symptoms decreased after rectocele repair (56% vs 23% splinting, 74% vs 37% straining, 85% vs 19% incomplete evacuation, 66% vs 14% obstructive defecation; P < .001 for all). On multiple logistic regression, a longer history of splinting was a risk factor for persistent postoperative splinting (adjusted odds ratio, 2.25; 95% confidence interval, 1.02-4.93).
Conclusion:
Bowel symptoms may improve after rectocele repair, but almost half of women will have persistent symptoms.
Related Concept Videos
Assessment of the Rectum and Anus
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:
Irritable Bowel Syndrome II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Evaluation
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is classified into subtypes based on the predominant bowel habits as determined by the Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS). The subtypes are:
Endoscopic Procedures II: Colonoscopy
Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy
Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a flexible sigmoidoscope equipped with a light source and camera to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. The procedure involves inserting the tube through the anus...
Irritable Bowel Syndrome