Rectocele Repair

Rectocele Repair


Repair for a vaginal rectocele is pursued in order to correct the
herniation or bulging of the bottom wall of the vagina. Symptoms
of rectocele can become quite uncomfortable and painful over
time. If left untreated, rectocele can lead to symptoms such as:
the feeling of increased pressure or protrusion in the vagina or
rectum, inability to defecate or feeling of incomplete emptying
of the bowels, pelvic pain, and/or painful sex. Both non-surgical
and surgical procedures for rectocele repair are only considered
if symptoms become severe and inhibit daily life. Surgery for
rectocele is typically performed transvagianally, yet, in some
severe cases, may be completed both vaginally and abdominally.


Why Do I Need Treatment for Rectocele?


Treatment for rectocele can greatly aid in managing and reducing
symptoms of rectocele or other forms of pelvic organ prolapse. In
some cases, rectocele and POP may be undetectable until the
condition has progressed in severity. A small rectocele is often
unrecognized until a doctor notices it during a physical
examination. In many cases, rectocele occurs alongside other
pelvic organ related conditions. 


Treatment is designed to help reduce symptoms and heal any
herniations, tears, or prolapses. Treatments include both
surgical and non-surgical options. Although surgery for rectocele
is often rare, in severe cases surgery may be your best option.
Severe rectocele symptoms include:


Bowels feeling full post defecation

A noticeable bulge or protrusion in the vagina

Inability to perform a bowel movement

Rectal incontinence



Is Rectocele Repair Major Surgery?


Rectocele repair surgery is a major, out-patient surgery. A
doctor will typically only recommend surgery for rectocele if at
home exercise programs and / or physical therapy has not resolved
the problem. The surgical procedure for rectocele removal is
called posterior colporrhaphy which removes the herniated bowel
from the wall of the vagina. Rectocele surgery is designed to:


Ease pain and discomfort

Minimally invasive transvaginal procedure

Outpatient (usually released without needing overnight stay)

Quick recovery time (2-3 weeks or less on average)



What is a Rectocele Repair Procedure?


The procedure for rectocele repair surgery is typically a
straightforward process. The surgery is often performed through
the vagina (transvagianlly.. The procedure is typically performed
by a surgeon making a small incision along the posterior vaginal
wall. Excess tissue along the herniation is removed and stitches
are sewn around the tear sight. If the doctor notices any other
forms of pelvic organ prolapse, he may resolve those issues as
well during the procedure. Once complete, the vaginal incisions
are stitched up and packed with gauze. Please speak with your
doctor for more information on this process.