The Results of Transperineal Surgery for Rectal Prolapse (10-Year Experience)

The Altemeier procedure for rectal prolapse offers excellent results in all age groups with minimal complications and allows for short hospital stays and recovery periods. We aimed to evaluate the results of transperineal surgery for rectal prolapse.

In this case series study, 74 patients underwent perineal rectal prolapse surgery using Altemeier method and coloanal anastomosis at Ayottollah Taleghani Hospital, Tehran from 2013 to 2023 were enrolled.

Overall, 48 patients were female (64.8%) and the mean age was 52 years (range 18 to 80). Common symptoms were constipation (62.1%), fecal incontinence (76.95%), rectal bleeding (41.85%), and difficult defecation (9.45%). The Jorge and Wexner incontinence score before and after the operation was 13.5 and 5.5, respectively, and no statistically significant difference was observed (P=0.41). No mortality was reported after surgery.

The long-term recurrence rate after Altemier's procedure was low. This method has a reasonable recurrence rate compared to other techniques, and is a good option for younger patients without underlying disease. Further multicenter studies with larger sample sizes are needed to evaluate the outcomes of transperineal surgery for rectal prolapse.