Rectal prolapse

Overview

Rectal prolapse occurs when part of the large intestine's lowest section (rectum) slips outside the muscular opening at the end of the digestive tract (anus). The prolapsed rectum can cause fecal incontinence. Surgery is usually needed to treat rectal prolapse.

Why choose Mayo Clinic

• Comprehensive care. People with rectal prolapse also often have other types of pelvic organ prolapse. Mayo Clinic's integrated practice gives you rapid access to all the experts needed to solve your problems. If you need surgery, Mayo specialists work together so that in most cases you have only one procedure.
• Advanced techniques. State-of-the-art technology helps your doctor see moving images of the entire pelvis and determine the most appropriate treatment for you.
• Intensive physical therapy. Mayo offers comprehensive biofeedback treatment to increase pelvic floor muscle strength.

Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., ranks No. 1 for digestive disorders in the U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals rankings. Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Ariz., and Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Fla., are ranked high performing for digestive disorders by U.S. News & World Report.

Mayo Clinic: Answers you can trust

At Mayo Clinic, we assemble a team of specialists who take the time to listen and thoroughly understand your health issues and concerns. We tailor the care you receive to your personal health care needs. You can trust our specialists to collaborate and offer you the best possible outcomes, safety and service.

Mayo Clinic is a not-for-profit medical institution that reinvests all earnings into improving medical practice, research and education. We're constantly involved in innovation and medical research, finding solutions to improve your care and quality of life. Your doctor or someone on your medical team is likely involved in research related to your condition.

Our patients tell us that the quality of their interactions, our attention to detail and the efficiency of their visits mean health care — and trusted answers — like they've never experienced.

Why Choose Mayo Clinic
What Sets Mayo Clinic Apart

Read more about rectal prolapse surgery.