Strangulated rectal prolapse in adult: Altemeier cure about two cases and literature review

Abstract

Introduction and importanceRectal prolapse is the protrusion of the rectum through the anus. It is a rare condition in young adults. Strangulation is rare but it's a serious complication imposing emergency surgery. Altemeier's recto-sigmoidectomy seems to be an appropriate surgical method for strangulation. The aim of our work was to evaluate this technique in two cases of strangulated rectal prolapse in young adults. Case presentationThis report is of two men aged 37 and 29. They were seen for the management of irreducible rectal prolapses. They both men gave a long history of constipation and rectal prolapse since childhood. The physical examination found complete rectal prolapse of 13 cm and 15 cm in length respectively. One person had necrosis of the rectal mucosa. The manual reduction failed, why perineal recto-sigmoidectomy was performed. Postoperative course was uneventful. After 24 months follow-up, there was no disorder of anal continence or recurrence. Clinical discussionStrangulated rectal prolapse is rare. This makes consensus in treatment difficult. The risk of necrosis explains the need for surgical excision of the rectum. ConclusionAltemeier's technique is a good procedure for the management of strangulated rectal prolapse.