title: Laparoscopic rectovaginopexy for rectal prolapse.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Open rectovaginopexy is an effective procedure for the treatment of both rectal prolapse and anterior rectocele. This study investigates our results of laparoscopic rectovaginopexy (LRVP).
  
  
  METHODS
  A consecutive series of 14 patients (median age, 73 years; range 24-92) with rectal prolapse was planned for LRVP. Pre-, per- and postoperative parameters were recorded. Followup was performed at the outpatients' clinic.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The median length of hospital stay was 6 days (range, 3-14). There was one fatal cerebrovascular accident 14 days postoperatively; this patient was excluded from further analysis. Median follow-up was 7 months (range, 0.75-38). During follow-up, 11 of 13 patients (85%) experienced resolution or major improvement of their symptoms. Anal incontinence was diminished in 9 of 13 cases (69%). Constipation improved in 2 of 3 patients (66%). These three patients experienced a combination of both anal incontinence and costipation, preoperatively. Recurrence occurred in 2 patients (15%). Two others had a minor residual mucosal prolapse. No patients reported symptoms suggestive of operation-induced constipation or dyspareunia.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  LRVP is feasible, and seems to be an effective procedure for rectal prolapse. No operation-induced constipation was observed in this series. Taking into account the age and co-morbidities of these patients, morbidity and mortality may be considered acceptable.
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, Reinier de Graaf Group, Delft, The Netherlands. verdaasdonk@rdgg.nl
authors.forename: E G G
authors.initials: EG
authors.lastname: Verdaasdonk
authors.forename: J M
authors.initials: JM
authors.lastname: Bueno de Mesquita
authors.forename: L P S
authors.initials: LP
authors.lastname: Stassen
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D013505:Digestive System Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy; D008875:Middle Aged; D011126:Polypropylenes; D012005:Rectal Prolapse / Q000601:surgery*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013526:Surgical Mesh; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014621:Vagina / Q000601:surgery
chemical_list: D011126:Polypropylenes