>> |
Anonymous
As the rectum becomes more prolapsed, the ligaments and muscles may weaken to the point that a large portion of the rectum protrudes from the body through the anus. This stage is called complete prolapse, or full-thickness rectal prolapse, and is the most commonly recognized stage of the condition. Initially, the rectum may protrude and retract depending on the persons movements and activities. However, if the disease goes untreated, the rectum may protrude more frequently or even permanently.
Another condition commonly considered a form of prolapsed rectum is called internal intussusception. Its effects on the rectum are similar to those of mucosal prolapse or complete rectal prolapse; however, in internal intussusception, the rectum neither protrudes from the body nor enters the anal canal.
Rectal prolapse is an uncommon disease and primarily affects elderly people. The disease is rare among children. Affected children are usually younger than 3 years. Men develop rectal prolapse much less frequently than women do (80-90%). In the United States, 0.42% of the overall population have rectal prolapse. In people older than 65 years, the prevalence is 1%.
|