Complete rectal prolapse in Enugu, Nigeria

The case records of thirty patients (21 male and 9 female) aged 8 to 62 years treated for complete rectal prolapse by operation over 5 years were studied. The results of treatment were compared with those in seven consecutive patients treated more recently by posterior rectopexy. Thiersch operation has been attended by an unacceptable high rate of reoccurrence, recurrent sepsis and faecal impaction. We recommend that is use should be abandoned. Anterior resection, usually more successful, is also associated with significant morbidity. We consider it too formidable an operation for a benign condition. We have found posterior rectopexy to be simple, safe and effective and we recommend it for the surgical treatment of complete rectal prolapse.