[Occult rectal prolapse: functional results after rectopexy].

In the present work the Authors have studied 19 patients with occult rectal prolapse evaluating symptoms and functional results after posterior abdominal rectopexy. Symptoms of internal rectal procidentia appear as a definite syndrome. In our patients pain upon defecation, this being often localized to the perineal and sacral region, was observed in 14 on 19 cases, while fecal incontinence was present in 5 cases (29%) and rectal bleeding in 8 (44%). These compliances are relieved by the anatomical correction of the rectal intussusception, but the preexisting functional disorders in the mechanism of defecation appear to be unaffected by rectopexy. (Sensation of obstruction 11 cases (58%) preop. e 9 cases (53%) postop.).