Internal intussusception of the rectum: a changing perspective

Internal intussusception of the rectum is the funnel-shaped infolding of the rectum during straining to defecate. Patients present with multiple symptoms; most commonly rectal pressure and pain in association with constipation and straining. Defecography (videofluoroscopy during defecation) is the method of choice for diagnosing this problem. Rectal mobility from the sacrum, infolding of the rectum and sphincter relaxation can be used to grade the findings on defecography (Grade I-IV). The optimal therapy for internal intussusception of the rectum is unknown because the cause of the problem is unknown. Conservative management is recommended in all but the most severely symptomatic patients.