Laparoscopic suture rectopexy versus laparoscopic mesh rectopexy in rectal prolapse

Background: Rectal prolapse is an incapacitating condition that can result in embarrassment when something comes out with defecation or forceful activity. It is defined as circumferential descent of the rectum through the anal canal and may be subdivided into complete and partial. Aim: To analyse differences in outcome between laparoscopic suture rectopexy and laparoscopic mesh rectopexy in complete rectal prolapse. Methods: A total of 42 patients underwent treatment for complete rectal prolapse at Quaid e Azam Medical College Bahawalpur. Data was collected from January 2016 to December 2019. Of these, 22 patients underwent laparoscopic suture rectopexy and 20 underwent laparoscopic posterior mesh rectopexy. Results: There were 2 anovaginal fistulae diagnosed in the follow-up period in the mesh group. One patient had severe pain due to localised erosion of mesh and underwent a revision procedure to remove a mesh through an open procedure 14 months after in a 46 year old female. Conclusion: We support the use of laparoscopic suture rectopexy over laparoscopic mesh rectopexy due to better outcomes in terms of less pain, less constipation and a lower complication rate.