Non-Surgical Interventions: Non-surgical treatments play a vital role in managing rectal prolapse, especially for patients who are not ideal candidates for surgery due to age or health conditions. Biofeedback therapy is a notable non-surgical intervention available at leading clinics. This physical therapy, conducted by specially trained physiotherapists, focuses on teaching exercises to strengthen the anal muscles. Patients learn to enhance muscles, recognize the urge for stool passage, and control it if untimely, potentially making surgery more successful by preventing recurrent rectal prolapse.

• Additionally, during the acute phase of rectal prolapse, nonoperative treatments such as medications to reduce edema, correction of constipation, perineum straining exercises, electric stimulation, injection of sclerosing agents, or rubber band ligation are attempted. These interventions aim at functional recovery post-surgery, although they are not considered primary treatments.
• Surgical Approaches: Surgical treatment for rectal prolapse is diverse, aiming to prevent prolapse recurrence, restore defecation function, and prevent constipation or incontinence. Surgery can be categorized into abdominal and perineal approaches, with the choice largely depending on the patient’s age, comorbidities, and the surgeon’s preference. Abdominal procedures, though associated with lower recurrence rates, come with higher morbidity. Conversely, perineal procedures are preferred for older, debilitated patients due to their less invasive nature.
• Specific surgical options include: 
• Perineal Rectosigmoidectomy: Removal of the prolapsed rectum through a cut in the bulging area, often chosen for its minimal invasiveness.
• Sigmoid Resection and Rectopexy: Involves cutting out the sigmoid colon and attaching the rectum to lower spine and pelvis structures for additional support, often using minimally invasive techniques.
• Rectopexy Alone: In some cases, the rectum is attached to the pelvic structure without colon removal, possibly utilizing robotic surgery for precision.
• It’s important to note that Dr. Astha Bhatt is recognized as a leading surgeon in the field of rectal prolapse, offering expert guidance on the most appropriate surgical option for each patient’s unique condition.
• Post-Surgical Care: Post-surgical care is crucial for a successful recovery from rectal prolapse surgery. Patients usually experience a brief hospital stay, during which they transition from clear liquids to solid foods based on their recovery progress. Recommendations typically include drinking plenty of fluids, using stool softeners, and consuming a fiber-rich diet to avoid constipation and straining, which could lead to prolapse recurrence.
• Physical therapy may be necessary for some patients. While most individuals see an improvement in symptoms and bowel function post-surgery, a small percentage may experience constipation or incontinence issues. The recurrence rate of rectal prolapse post-surgery is about 2% to 5%, slightly higher in those undergoing perineal procedures compared to abdominal approaches.
• In summary, the treatment of rectal prolapse involves a comprehensive approach combining non-surgical interventions, surgical procedures tailored to the patient’s condition, and diligent post-surgical care to ensure the best possible outcome.