Abdominal Rectopexy Surgery in Leicester
A surgical procedure for treating rectal prolapse.
Understanding Abdominal Rectopexy Surgery
Rectal prolapse happens when the rectum, which is part of the large intestine, slips down into the anus. This occurs due to weakened muscles that normally support it. Rectal prolapse might resemble or feel like haemorrhoids, but unlike haemorrhoids, it does not resolve on its own. Surgery will eventually be necessary to correct the issue.Generally, for healthy adults, the preferred option is a rectopexy, a surgical procedure to mend the rectum through the abdomen. This operation put the rectum back to its initial position in the pelvis. The surgeon will secure the rectum to the back wall of the pelvis (sacrum) using permanent stitches.
Abdominal Rectopexy Treats:
Rectal prolapseInternal rectal prolapse Obstructed defecation syndrome (ODS) Pelvic floor dysfunction
Prolapse of other pelvic organs
Chronic rectal bleeding or mucus discharge
Rectal ulcers
Understanding Abdominal Rectopexy Surgery
Rectal prolapse happens when the rectum, which is part of the large intestine, slips down into the anus. This occurs due to weakened muscles that normally support it. Rectal prolapse might resemble or feel like haemorrhoids, but unlike haemorrhoids, it does not resolve on its own. Surgery will eventually be necessary to correct the issue. Generally, for healthy adults, the preferred option is a rectopexy, a surgical procedure to mend the rectum through the abdomen. This operation put the rectum back to its initial position in the pelvis. The surgeon will secure the rectum to the back wall of the pelvis (sacrum) using permanent stitches.Abdominal Rectopexy Treats:
Rectal prolapseInternal rectal prolapseObstructed defecation syndrome (ODS) Pelvic floor dysfunction
Prolapse of other pelvic organs Chronic rectal bleeding ormucus discharge
Rectal ulcers How Does the Abdominal Rectopexy Procedure Work?
Abdominal rectopexy is a surgical procedure that repositions the rectum to its original place within the pelvis. During this procedure, the surgeon will use permanent stitches to secure the rectum to the back wall of the pelvis (sacrum) and may also use mesh for support. These measures are intended to maintain the position of the rectum until scar tissue forms, which will then provide long-term support.
Depending on the surgeon’s decision and experience, rectopexy may be performed using open abdominal surgery, minimally invasive laparoscopic, or robotic surgery.
Open abdominal rectopexy: It involves opening the abdominal cavity to access the organs and making an abdominal incision to reposition and secure the rectum to the sacrum. However, there is a possibility of experiencing increased discomfort and pain following the surgical procedure.
Laparoscopic rectopexy: A thin tube with a camera (laparoscope) and medical instruments is inserted through small abdominal incisions to secure the rectum in place.
Robotic rectopexy: This procedure is like laparoscopic surgery, but a robotic device is used to help repair the prolapse. If necessary, a bowel resection or placement of a mesh sling may also be performed.
Treatment At a Glance
Purpose
Procedure Duration
Anaesthesia
Purpose
Rectal prolapse
Pain
Moderate
Procedure Duration
2-3 Hours
Recovery Time
6-12 Weeks
Drive
After 2 weeks
Anaesthesia
General
Recovery Time
Pain
Drive
Benefits of Abdominal Rectopexy Surgery
Restores Normal Bowel Function
Abdominal rectopexy helps restore healthy bowel movements by correcting rectal prolapse and reducing constipation and discomfort.
Improves Quality of Life
The surgery improves prolapse issues and helps patients feel much more comfortable and healthier in their daily lives.
Minimally Invasive Option
Laparoscopic rectopexy is a minimally invasive procedure, offering faster recovery and smaller scars compared to open surgery.
Reduces Recurrence
Abdominal rectopexy surgery provides long-term relief, significantly lowering the risk of prolapse recurrence and complications.
Boosts Self-Confidence
Eliminating embarrassing symptoms like incontinence or frequent prolapse can restore confidence in social situations.
Long-Lasting Results
Abdominal rectopexy provides a durable solution, with most patients enjoying long-term relief from prolapse symptoms.
Cost of Abdominal Rectopexy Surgery
Consultations start at £200. Please request a callback by filling out the contact form. We look forward to assisting you!
Why Choose Leicester Bowel Clinic?
At Leicester Bowel Clinic, we focus on bowel health and conditions, digestive issues, and cancer care. Our clinic offers minimally invasive procedures for bowel problems, ensuring effective results and patient comfort. We aim to provide personalised care for our patients and offer the latest treatments for hernias, bowel conditions and rectal disorders
Patient Testimonials
Mr Chaudhri is an excellent surgeon I can’t thank him enough for the operations he performed on me after i was diagnosed with bowel cancer, the care he showed me before and after the operations, his friendly nature and reassurance was a great help to me during a stressful time in my life i owe so much to him and i will always be grateful to him and his colleagues .
Written by an NHS patient
I’ve been under Mr Chaudhri’s care for around 2 years now and he has always shown me the best, personal care I could ask for.
Written by an NHS patient
This doctor spoke to you and made jokes to make you feel at ease. He was also clearly very knowledgable, and his words/advice were comforting and I left feeling uplifted. With regards to the procedure itself, he wasn’t aggressive but nor was he too slow where you had time to consider the slight discomfort; the pace and strength were fine and made for a quick and easy colonoscopy.
Written by an NHS patient
Our Locations
Leicester Bowel Clinic at Spire Hospital
- Wednesdays evenings (Mr Runau) from 6:00 pm until 9:00 pm at: Spire Leicester Hospital Gartree Road Leicester LE2 2FF
- To arrange an appointment directly with the Spire Leicester Hospital, please call the booking line on 0116 2653685
*Free on-site parking is available.
The Health Suite
- CLINICS The Health Suite Thursday evenings (Mr Chaudhri) from 6:00pm until 8:00pm at:The Health Suite, 624a Uppingham Rd, Leicester LE7 9QB
- To arrange an appointment directly with The Health Suit, please call the booking line on 0116 241010
*Free on-site parking is available.
Leicester Bowel Clinic at Nuffield Health Leicester Hospital
- 1st and 3rd Friday of the month (Mr Chaudhri) from 5:30 pm until 8:00 pm at: Nuffield Health Leicester Hospital, Scraptoft Ln, Leicester LE5 1HY
- To arrange an appointment directly with The Nuffield Hospital, please call the booking line on 0300 1311416
*Free on-site parking is available.
FAQs
01. What factors increase the risk of rectal prolapse?
Rectal prolapse is more common in females, especially as they get older. Generally, elderly individuals with a history of constipation or pelvic floor issues are at a higher risk of experiencing a prolapsed rectum.
Other factors that increase the risk of rectal prolapse include:
- Persistent constipation.
- Frequent straining during bowel movements.
- Lower back injury or disc disease.
- Dementia.
- Stroke.
- Hysterectomy.
- Weakness in the muscles of the anus or pelvic floor.
- Family history of rectal prolapse.
- Parasitic infections such as schistosomiasis.
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- Harmless prostatic hypertrophy (enlargement of the prostate gland).
- Injury or issues with the ligaments that support the rectum’s attachment to the intestinal wall.
- Congenital bowel disorders like Hirschsprung’s disease or neuronal intestinal dysplasia.
02. How can I avoid rectal prolapse from happening or returning after surgery?
To avoid rectal prolapse from happening or returning after surgery, it is important to follow your doctor’s recommendations for post-operative care. Below are some tips you can follow to avoid recurrence.
- Manage chronic bowel conditions.
- Do not allow chronic constipation or diarrhoea to continue.
- Enquire with your healthcare provider about lifestyle changes and medicines.
- Strengthen your pelvic floor.
- Engaging in Kegel exercises can help maintain the strength and fitness of your pelvic muscles.
These exercises have been proven to prevent incontinence and potential pelvic organ prolapse.
03. What are the consequences of not treating rectal prolapse?
If rectal prolapse is not treated, you may be able to manage it at home as long as it’s not causing troublesome symptoms. Managing it involves manually pushing your rectum back inside. Healthcare professionals recommend lying on your side with your knees to your chest and using a wet, warm cloth to gently push your rectum back into place. However, the prolapse will worsen over time.
Leaving rectal prolapse untreated can result in various potential complications, including:
- Loss of bowel control
- Difficulty passing stool
- Ulcers in the rectum
- Incarceration
04. Will I be able to live normally after rectal prolapse surgery?
After the surgery, you can expect to resume your regular activities in approximately 6 weeks. However, for the first 3 months following the surgery, it’s important to take it easy and avoid lifting heavy objects or standing for long periods of time. If you strain or lift too soon after the surgery, there’s a risk of the prolapse returning.
05. Can a prolapse come back after surgery?
Yes, a prolapse can return after surgery. If you have more than one prolapsed organ, you may still have symptoms even after surgery. Additionally, surgery can lead to other issues, such as incontinence, pain during intercourse, and bladder injury.
06. What should I avoid after pelvic prolapse surgery?
- Try not to drink too much tea, coffee, or alcohol because they can make you need to pee more often.
- Avoid heavy lifting, standing for long periods, or performing strenuous tasks. Some doctors may also advise you to avoid heavy lifting in the long run.
- Don’t smoke, as coughing from smoking can strain your pelvic floor muscles.
- Try not to gain too much weight, as it can put pressure on your pelvic area.
07. When can I return to work following abdominal rectopexy surgery?
The time you can go back to work depends on the type of surgery you had, how you’re feeling, and the kind of work you do. If you have a desk job, you may go back after about three weeks. If your job involves physical activity, it might take up to 12 weeks. Your doctor will give you advice and provide a certificate saying you’re fit to work.
