Altemeier’s procedure for the treatment of incarcerated rectal prolapse: A case report and literature review

DOI: 10.17605/OSF.IO/PJAFS

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Dávila LC, Narváez NJ. Altemeier’s procedure for the treatment of incarcerated rectal prolapse: A case report and literature review. Am J Med Surg. 2021; 5(2). 28-30.

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BACKGROUND.

Introduction: Rectal prolapse is the protrusion of the entire thickness of the rectal wall through the anal sphincter. It was one of the first surgical problems recognized by the medical profession. However, many facets of its etiology and treatment remain controversial. There is still debate about the pathophysiological mechanism of rectal prolapse, but chronic abdominal strain is present in most cases. The goal of surgical treatment is to perform anatomical correction of the prolapse, restore continence, and improve constipation and bowel movements.

Case report: In this article we present the case of an adult patient with massive irreducible rectal prolapse who was successfully treated with a perineal rectosigmoidectomy known as the Altemeier's procedure.

Conclusion: The type of surgery for patients with rectal prolapse should be selected taking into account the general condition of the patient, the degree of prolapse and the surgical experience, however, when we are in the presence of an incarcerated rectal prolapse, the surgical procedure of choice is to be the perineal rectosigmoidectomy (Altemeier's procedure) as occurred in our case.

 

Key Words: rectal prolapse, perineal rectosigmoidectomy, Altemeier's procedure