The Altemeier repair - a form of repair for complete rectal prolapse

Abstract

The problem of full-thickness rectal prolapse is formidable. The operations proposed are broadly divided into transabdominal and perineal procedures with no clear choice of superiority. The aim of the study is to report a series of perineal sigmoidectomy (Altemeier's modification) for full thickness rectal prolapse. A retrospective review of all cases of rectal prolapse operated upon over a period of 15 years (1990-2005) by the same surgeon using hospital records. The setting is at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital. Port Harcourt and Seaside Specialist Surgery, Port Harcourt. Data extracted included: name, age, presenting symptoms, signs, investigations, diagnosis, co-morbidities, procedure, outcome and follow-up. Fifty two adults comprising 40 (76.9%) females and 12(23.1%) males with a mean age of 62.6 years were treated for full thickness rectal prolapse for a period of 15 years. They all presented with rectal prolapse and other associated symptoms. Following the surgery, they were all satisfied as there was no longer visible prolapse and they enjoyed varying improvement of other symptoms. Altemeier's mode of repair of rectal prolapse is safe and can be carried out in elderly patients with multiple co-morbidities.
Key Words: Complete rectal prolapse; Altemeier repair; Outcome
Nigerian Hospital Practice Vol. 2 (3) 2008: pp. 60-64