Whole gut transit is prolonged after Ripstein rectopexy.

Abstract

To find out if there are changes in transit time after Ripstein rectopexy and whether measurement of whole gut transit time preoperatively can predict postoperative constipation. Prospective open study. Teaching hospital, Sweden. 30 patients undergoing Ripstein rectopexy for rectal prolapse (n = 17) or internal rectal intussusception (n = 13). Whole-gut transit studies and recording of symptoms of constipation preoperatively and postoperatively. Constipation and retention of markers. Significantly more markers were retained in postoperative compared with preoperative transit studies (p < 0.001). Constipation mainly presented as emptying difficulties and there was no increase in the total number of patients who reported emptying difficulties postoperatively. There was a weak but significant correlation between retention of markers preoperatively and postoperative emptying difficulties (p < 0.05). Whole gut transit was prolonged after Ripstein rectopexy. Preoperative retention of markers indicated an increased risk of postoperative constipation.