Diagnosis and mangement of rectal prolapse

Key words: Rectal prolapse, Children, Management

Rectal prolapse is an overall rare occurrence in children in the first 4 years of age. It typically tends to relapse. In the majority of cases it is not possible to highlight a single cause that determines prolapse, even if it is more frequent in children who suffer from constipation. In about 1 in 10 cases there is an underlying predisposing anatomical-neurological condition (in particular neurological: myelomenigocele, spina bifida occulta). A predisposing cause that must always be considered and excluded is cystic fibrosis, even in the age of newborn screening. Rectal prolapse management is conservative in most cases. Behavioural measures (correct toilet training, good hydration, diet rich in fibres) and the use of the macrogol laxative are fundamental. The prolapse that does not resolve spontaneously must be reduced manually by instructing the family on the technique to be used. In 90% of cases the natural history of rectal prolapse is favourable, with complete resolution within the first 4 years of age. After this age, it occurs more rarely. Surgery is rarely indicated. The current techniques that have a large consensus are sclerotherapy and laparoscopic rectopexy. The paper reports the management of recurrent rectal prolapse in a 3-year-old boy.