ABSTRACT
Prolapse was recorded by the ancient Egyptians (Ebers Papyrus, ca. 1500 B.C.) [1]. In full-thickness rectal prolapse (procidentia), the rectum protrudes through the anal opening, whereas in internal prolapse (preprolapse or sigmoidorectal intussusception) the rectum does not protrude beyond the anal opening. [2] Although the exact incidence of prolapse is not known, it is relatively uncommon. Despite its infrequency, a plethora of surgical options exist to treat rectal prolapse. This chapter outlines the current understanding of the causes of prolapse, the evaluation of the patient with prolapse, and the more commonly used surgical alternatives.
