Laparoscopic-assisted Altemeier surgery for total rectal prolapse: a case report

Abstract

Abstract Background Surgery is the predominant method of treating total rectal prolapse. The transabdominal approach has the advantage of reducing recurrence rates compared to the transperineal approach. However, the former is complicated and is mostly applied to patients with prolapse accompanied by constipation. Therefore, Laparoscopic-assisted Altemeier surgery might be a novel option for patient with total rectal prolapse.Case report A 40-year-old man who repeatedly suffered rectal prolapse after defecation for 3 years, was diagnosed with total rectal prolapse based on physical examination and MRI, and the prolapse was about 10 cm. We performed laparoscopic-assisted Altemeier surgery. Postoperatively, the patient achieved an excellent recovery and was out on day 7.Conclusion This procedure ensures that the prolapsed bowel is completely removed and the pelvic floor elevation is assessed, which reduces the chances of recurrence. In addition, the risks, invasiveness and longer duration of more complex laparoscopic procedures are avoided.