title: How could management of rectoceles be optimized?
abstract: A posterior vaginal wall prolapse, also known as a rectocele, is a common condition and is an outpouching of the posterior vaginal wall and anterior rectal wall into the lumen of the vagina.1-5 Although more common in parous women, rectoceles of over 1 cm in size have been demonstrated in over 40% of nulliparous women. As rectoceles may be asymptomatic, their true prevalence is not clear. Many women with rectoceles present to their gynaecologist who may not ascertain any anorectal symptoms or perform a rectal examination. Conversely, colorectal surgeons often disregard a vaginal examination.6 Conventionally, gynaecologists have managed rectoceles, but increasingly colorectal surgeons are involved because of the prevalence of anorectal symptoms. There are many surgical techniques for the management of a symptomatic rectocele. There is, however, little data to suggest which is the most effective technique, or whether specific techniques are more appropriate in certain circumstances.7
authors.affiliation: Department of Urogynaecology, Royal Women's Hospital and Department of Surgery, Colorectal Unit, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
authors.forename: Judith T W
authors.initials: JT
authors.lastname: Goh
authors.forename: Joe J
authors.initials: JJ
authors.lastname: Tjandra
authors.forename: Marcus P
authors.initials: MP
authors.lastname: Carey
mesh_terms: D003248:Constipation / Q000209:etiology; D004414:Dyspareunia / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D005772:Gastrointestinal Transit; D006801:Humans; D020047:Rectocele / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery / Q000628:therapy*; D013526:Surgical Mesh; D016896:Treatment Outcome