title: Rectocele.
abstract: Rectoceles are common and involve a herniation of the rectum into the posterior vaginal wall that results in a vaginal bulge. Women with rectoceles generally complain of perineal and vaginal pressure, obstructive defecation, constipation, or the need to splint or digitally reduce the vagina to effectuate a bowel movement. Rectoceles are associated with age and parturition and arise from either a tear or stretching of the rectovaginal fascia, and can be repaired via a vaginal, anal, or perineal approach. Although the rate of successful anatomic repair is high, reports of functional outcome are more variable.
authors.affiliation: Department of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Ochsner Clinic Foundation, New Orleans, Louisiana.
authors.forename: David E
authors.initials: DE
authors.lastname: Beck
authors.forename: Nechol L
authors.initials: NL
authors.lastname: Allen