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Background: Few studies have investigated healthy female individuals (HFI) and those with obstructed defecation syndrome associated with moderate rectocele in women (MRW), identified using three-dimensional high-resolution anorectal manometry (3D HRAM) parameters that correlate with age stratification., Objective: We aimed to explore the clinical diagnostic values of the MRW and HFI groups using 3D HRAM parameters related to age stratification., Methods: A prospective non-randomized controlled trial involving 128 cases from the MRW (treatment group, 68 cases) and HFI (control group, 60 cases) groups was conducted using 3D HRAM parameters at Tianjin Union Medical Center between January 2017 and June 2022, and patients were divided into two subgroups based on their ages: the ≥50 and < 50 years subgroups., Results: Multivariate binary logistic regression analysis showed that age (P = 0.024) and rectoanal inhibitory reflex (P = 0.001) were independent factors affecting the disease in the MRW group. Compared to the HFI group, the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve demonstrated that the 3D HRAM parameters exhibited a higher diagnostic value for age (Youden index = 0.31), urge to defecate (Youden index = 0.24), and rectoanal pressure differential (Youden index = 0.21) in the MRW group., Conclusions: Compared to the HFI group, the ROC curve of the 3D HRAM parameters suggests that age, urge to defecate, and rectoanal pressure differential in the MRW group have a significant diagnostic value. Because the Youden index is lower, 3D HRAM cannot be considered the gold standard method for diagnosing MRW., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Aims: The aim of this retrospective study was to try to find correlations between different diagnoses established by clinical examination, anorectal manometry and MRI-defecography and, the association with psychiatric disorders., Methods: 44 patients (median age 53.81 years) presenting with intestinal motility disorders and who underwent clinical, biological and psychiatric examination, dynamic defecographic-MRI (resting, squeezing, straining, defecation and evacuation phases), anorectal manometry, colonoscopy. MRI was performed using the 1,5 T., Results: MRI-defecography revealed the following changes: anismus (16), rectocele (12), pelvic floor dysfunction (6), peritoneocele (2), cervical-cystic-ptosis (1), rectal prolapse (6), and in 1 case the examination was normal. Hypertonic anal sphincter (16) and lack of defecation reflex (12) at anorectal manometry correlated with anismus in all patients at MRI-defecography. Lack of inhibitor anal reflex (6) was associated with rectocele (4), cervix-cysto-ptosis (1) and peritoneocele (2). Anxiety (11), depression (6) and anxiety-depressive disorders (10) were found in 27/44, somatization disorders in 9/44 and no psychiatric changes in 8/44 cases., Conclusion: As multiparous women are at risk for outlet obstruction constipation, MRI-defecography is suggested in this category. There is good correlation between diagnosis using anorectal manometry and MRI-defecography in patients with terminal constipation and anismus. Lower defecation dysfunction is often associated with psychiatric disorders., Competing Interests: The authors report no conflicts of interest in this work.

Background: Dynamic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the pelvic floor plays a key role in imaging complex pelvic floor dysfunction. The simultaneous detection of multiple findings in a complex anatomic setting renders correct analysis and clinical interpretation challenging., Objectives: The most important aspects (anatomy of the pelvic floor, three compartment model, morphological and functional analysis, reporting) for a successful clinical use of dynamic MRI of the pelvic floor are summarized., Materials and Methods: Review of the scientific literature on dynamic pelvic MR imaging with special consideration of the joint recommendations provided by the expert panel of ESUR/ESGAR in 2016., Results: The pelvic floor is a complex anatomic structure, mainly formed by the levator ani muscle, the urethral support system and the endopelvic fascia. Firstly, morphological changes of these structures are analysed on the static sequences. Secondly, the functional analysis using the three compartment model is performed on the dynamic sequences during squeezing, straining and defecation. Pelvic organ mobility, pelvic organ prolapse, the anorectal angle and pelvic floor relaxation are measured and graded. The diagnosis of cystoceles, enteroceles, rectoceles, the uterovaginal as well as anorectal decent, intussusceptions and dyssynergic defecation should be reported using a structured report form., Conclusions: A comprehensive analysis of all morphological and functional findings during dynamic MRI of the pelvic floor can provide information missed by other imaging modalities and hence alter therapeutic strategies., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Medizin Verlag GmbH, ein Teil von Springer Nature.)

Introduction and Hypothesis: Women with a symptomatic rectocele may undergo different trajectories depending on the specialty consulted. This survey aims to evaluate potential differences between colorectal surgeons and gynecologists concerning the management of a rectocele., Methods: A web-based survey was sent to abdominal surgeons (CS group) and gynecologists (G group) asking about their perceived definition, diagnostic workup, multidisciplinary discussion (MDT) and surgical treatment of rectoceles. The answers of both groups were analyzed with the chi-square test or Fisher's exact test at p < 0.050., Results: A rectocele was defined as a prolapse of the posterior vaginal wall by 78% of the G and 41% of the CS group. All gynecologists and 49% of the CS group evaluated a rectocele clinically in dorsal decubitus, with 91% of gynecologists using a speculum and 65% using the Pelvic Organ Prolapse-Quantification (POP-Q) scoring system, compared to < 1/3 of colorectal surgeons. A digital rectal examination was performed by 90% of the CS group and 57% of the G group. A transvaginal ultrasound was only used by the G group, while anal manometry was opted for by the CS group (65%) and minimally by the G group (14%). In the G group, a posterior repair was the preferred surgical technique (78%), whereas 63% of the CS group preferred a rectopexy. Multidisciplinary discussions (MDT) were mostly organized ad hoc., Conclusions: An availability bias is seen in different aspects of rectocele evaluation and treatment. Colorectal surgeons and gynecologists are acting based on their training and experience. Motivation for pelvic floor MDT starts with creating awareness of the availability bias., (© 2022. The International Urogynecological Association.)

Background: More common in older women than younger women, rectoceles may be secondary to pelvic floor weakness and/or pelvic floor dysfunction with impaired rectal evacuation. Rectoceles may be small (&lt;2 cm), medium (2-4 cm), or large (&gt;4 cm). Arguably, large rectoceles are more likely to be associated with symptoms (e.g., difficult defecation). It can be challenging to ascertain the extent to which a rectocele is secondary to pelvic floor dysfunction and/or whether a rectocele, rather than associated pelvic floor dysfunction, is responsible for symptoms. Surgical repair should be considered when initial treatment measures (e.g., bowel modifying agents and pelvic floor biofeedback therapy) are unsuccessful., Purpose: We summarize the clinical features, diagnosis, and management of rectoceles, with an emphasis on outcomes after surgical repair. This review accompanies a retrospective analysis of outcomes after multidisciplinary, transvaginal rectocele repair procedures undertaken by three colorectal surgeons in 215 patients at a large teaching hospital in the UK. A majority of patients had a large rectocele. Some patients also underwent an anterior levatorplasty and/or an enterocele repair. All patients were jointly assessed, and some patients underwent surgery by colorectal and urogynecologic surgeons. In this cohort, the perioperative data, efficacy, and harms outcomes are comparable with historical data predominantly derived from retrospective series in which patients had a good outcome (67%-78%), symptoms of difficult defecation improved (30%-50%), and patients had a recurrent rectocele 2 years after surgery (17%). Building on these data, prospective studies that rigorously evaluate outcomes after surgical repair are necessary., (© 2022 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Objectives: Our primary objective was to determine the association between rectocele size on defecography and physical examination in symptomatic patients. Our secondary objective was to describe the associations between both defecography and physical examination findings with defecatory symptoms and progression to surgical repair of rectocele., Methods: We performed a retrospective review of all patients referred to a female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery clinic with a diagnosis of rectocele based on defecography and/or physical examination at a single institution from 2003 to 2017. Patients who did not have defecatory symptoms, did not undergo defecography imaging, or did not have a physical examination in a female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery clinic within 12 months of defecography imaging were excluded., Results: Of 200 patients, 181 (90.5%) had a rectocele diagnosed on defecography and 170 (85%) had a rectocele diagnosed on physical examination. Pearson and Spearman tests of correlation both showed a positive relationship between the rectocele size on defecography and rectocele stage on physical examination; however, one was not reliable to predict the results of the other (Pearson correlation = 0.25; Spearman ρ = 0.29). The strongest predictor of surgery was rectocele stage on physical examination (P < 0.001). Size of rectocele on defecography was not a strong independent predictor for surgery (P = 0.01), although its significance improved with the addition of splinting (P = 0.004)., Conclusions: Our results suggest that rectocele on defecography does not necessarily equate to rectocele on physical examination in patients with defecatory symptoms. Rectocele on physical examination was more predictive for surgery than rectocele on defecography., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that they have no conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2019 American Urogynecologic Society. All rights reserved.)

Aim: Thorough assessment of obstructed defaecation syndrome (ODS) is imperative for the selection of treatment options. The present study aimed to examine the utility of the Mansoura Numeroalphabetic Constipation Score (MNCS) in distinguishing patients with ODS from healthy control subjects and in predicting the outcome of treatment of ODS., Methods: Patients with ODS associated with anterior rectocele and/or rectoanal intussusception were assessed with the MNCS at the first visit to the clinic. All patients were offered conservative treatment for 3 months and patients who improved were continued on conservative treatment for six more months while patients who failed were treated surgically. The MNCS was reassessed at the end of follow-up in both groups. A cohort of healthy controls was compared to ODS patients with regard to age, sex and baseline MNCS., Results: In all, 124 ODS patients and 53 healthy controls were included. The ODS patients had a significantly higher baseline MNCS than controls (9.5 ± 1.5 vs 0.76 ± 0.71, P < 0.0001). Forty of 124 patients improved after conservative management and showed a significant decrease in MNCS (6.9 ± 1.08 to 3.1 ± 1.2, P < 0.0001). Eighty-four (67.8%) patients failed to respond to conservative measures and were surgically treated, 77 (91.6%) of whom showed significant improvement in symptoms postoperatively while seven (8.4%) failed to improve; the difference in postoperative MNCS between the two groups was significant., Conclusion: The MNCS successfully distinguished ODS patients from controls and was able to predict the outcome of ODS treatment., (Colorectal Disease © 2020 The Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland.)

Background: Different surgical techniques have been proposed for rectocele repair. However, controversial aspects exist on the best approach to use. The study aims to report the early and late outcomes of the sequential transfixed stich technique (STST) for the treatment of rectocele in the absence of mucosal prolapse., Methods: One hundred patients presenting a symptomatic rectocele were treated with STST from January 2010 through August 2015. Patients with mucosal prolapse were not considered eligible for STST. After a period of 24 months from surgery, all the patients were clinically evaluated with the intent to investigate the risk of recurrence of the preoperative symptoms., Results: All the patients were women (median age=54.7 years; ranges=37-75). Median discharge time was 1.5 days. One-month severe complications were: hemorrhoid thrombosis (6.0%), self-solved bleeding (6.0%), urinary retention (4.0%), anal secretion (4.0%) and urinary incontinence (1.0%). No post-operative cases of fecal incontinence were observed. Two years after surgery, 76.0% of patients reported a global improvement of the preoperative symptoms, with 73 and 35% of cases showing a reduced difficulty in the evacuation and need for digitation. Only 8.0% of patients showed a recurrence of the initial symptoms., Conclusions: The STST is a feasible, safe, and cost-effective technique for the treatment of the rectocele without rectal mucosal prolapse. The method does not increase the risk of postoperative anal incontinence and presents a short hospital stay. STST presents long-term results in line with other transvaginal and transanal approaches.

Background: Prolapse of the anterior and posterior vaginal walls has been generally associated with apical descent and levator ani muscle defects. However, the relative contributions of these factors to the pathophysiology of descent in the different vaginal compartments is not well understood. Furthermore, symptoms uniquely associated with prolapse in these compartments have not been well characterized., Objectives: The objectives of the study were to compare the associations between the following: (1) apical support, (2) levator ani muscles, and (3) pelvic floor symptoms in women with posterior-predominant prolapse, anterior-predominant prolapse, and normal support., Study Design: This is a cross-sectional study with 2 case arms: 60 women with posterior prolapse, 90 with anterior prolapse, and a referent control arm with 103 asymptomatic subjects with normal support, determined from pelvic organ prolapse quantification examinations. Levator muscle defects were graded from magnetic resonance imaging. Vaginal closure forces above resting were measured with an instrumented speculum during maximal contraction. Pelvic floor symptoms were measured via the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory-Short Form., Results: Mean point C location in controls was -6.9 cm [1.5] (mean [standard deviation]); and was higher in posterior prolapse (-4.7 cm [2.7], 2.2 cm below controls) than the anterior prolapse group (-1.2 cm [4.1]; 5.6 cm below controls, P < .001 for all comparisons). Normal-appearing muscles (ie, muscle without a visible defect) occurred at similar frequencies in posterior prolapse (45%) and controls (51%, P = .43) but less often in anterior prolapse (28%, P ≤ .03 for pairwise comparisons). Major levator ani defects occurred at similar rates in women with posterior (33%) and anterior prolapse (42%, P = .27) but less often in controls (16%, P ≤ .012 for both pairwise comparisons). Similarly, there were significant differences in generated vaginal closure forces across the 3 groups, with the prolapse groups generating weaker closure forces than the control group (P = .004), but the differences between the 2 prolapse groups were not significant after controlling for prolapse size (P = .43). Pelvic floor symptoms were more severe for the posterior (mean Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory score, 129) and anterior prolapse groups (score, 128) than the controls (score, 40.2, P < .001 for both comparisons); the difference between the 2 prolapse groups was not significant (P = .83)., Conclusion: Posterior-predominant prolapse involves an almost 3-fold less apical descent below normal than anterior-predominant vaginal prolapse. Levator ani defects and muscle impairment also have a lower impact. Pelvic floor symptoms reflect the presence and size of prolapse more than the predominant lax vaginal compartment., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objectives: Rectocele with constipation might be related to methane (CH4) producing intestinal bacteria. We investigated the breath CH4 levels and the clinical characteristics of colorectal motility in constipated patients with rectocele., Methods: A database of consecutive female outpatients was reviewed for the evaluation of constipation according to the Rome III criteria. The patients underwent the lactulose CH4 breath test (LMBT), colon marker study, anorectal manometry, defecography and bowel symptom questionnaire. The profiles of the lactulose breath test (LBT) in 33 patients with rectocele (with size ≥ 2 cm) and 26 patients with functional constipation (FC) were compared with the breath test results of 30 healthy control subjects., Results: The mean size of rectocele was 3.52 ± 1.06 cm. The rate of a positive LMBT (LMBT+) was significantly higher in patients with rectocele (33.3%) than in those with FC (23.1%) or healthy controls (6.7%) (p = 0.04). Breath CH4 concentration was positively correlated with rectosigmoid colon transit time in rectocele patients (γ = 0.481, p < 0.01). A maximum high pressure zone pressure > 155 mmHg was a significant independent factor of LMBT+ in rectocele patients (OR = 8.93, 95% CI = 1.14-71.4, p = 0.04)., Conclusions: LMBT+ might be expected in constipated patients with rectocele. Moreover, increased rectosigmoid colonic transit or high anorectal pressure might be associated with CH4 breath levels. Breath CH4 could be an important therapeutic target for managing constipated patients with rectocele.

Objectives: To determine the relationship between vaginal birth and the development of POP among women who deliv-ered in non-hospital settings (home birth)., Material and Methods: Data were collected retrospectively from the files of patients who presented to a hospital outpatient clinic between April 1, 2011 and April 1, 2012 with complaints of urinary incontinence, uterine sagging, vaginal mass, or vaginal pain. The patients' age, height, weight, body mass index, menopause age, number of deliveries, and presence of hypertension and diabetes mellitus were noted. Patients whose urogynecologic evaluation included POP Quantification (POP-Q) scoring were included in the study. The patients were separated into a group of women who had never given birth and another group of women with one or more deliveries., Results: Of the 179 patients in the study, 28 had never given birth and 151 had given birth at least once. The nulliparous patients had no cystocele, rectocele, or uterine prolapse. The prevalence rates of cystocele, rectocele, and uterine prolapse were significantly higher in the multiparous group. Cystocele, rectocele, and uterine prolapse development were significantly correlated with number of deliveries, but there was no statistical association with age, body mass index, menopausal age, diabetes mellitus, or hypertension. univariate analysis reveals that the only factor effective in the development of cytocele, rectocele and prolapse is the number of births., Conclusions: Our study suggests that only number of deliveries is associated with development of cystocele, rectocele, and uterine prolapse in women who gave birth by vaginal route in residential settings.

Background: Transperineal rectocele repairs, either as isolated fascial repair or in combination with mesh augmentation, are hypothesized to reduce the risk of complications compared with alternative techniques., Aim: The aim of this study was to ascertain long-term success and complication rates following transperineal rectocele repairs., Method: A literature search of PubMed and Embase was performed using the terms 'transperineal rectocele', 'rectocele', 'transperineal' and 'repair'. Prospective studies, case series and retrospective case note analyses from 1 January 1994 to 1 December 2016 were included. Those that detailed outcomes of the transperineal approach or compared it to transanal/transvaginal approaches were included. The main outcome measures were reported complications and functional outcome scores., Results: A total of 14 studies were included. Of 566 patients, 333 (58.8%) underwent a transperineal rectocele repair and 220 (41.2%) a transanal repair. Complications were identified in 27 (12.3%) of the 220 transanal repairs and in 41 (12.3%) of the 333 transperineal repairs. A significant complication following transperineal repair was noted in eight studies. There are not enough data to make a reliable comparison between mesh and non-mesh transperineal repairs or to compare biological and synthetic mesh use., Limitations: Outcome reporting differed between studies, precluding a full meta-analysis., Conclusion: Transperineal rectocele repair offers an effective method of symptom improvement and appears to have a similar complication rate as transanal rectocele repair. Concomitant use of synthetic and biological mesh augmentation is becoming more common; however, high-quality comparative data are lacking, so a direct comparison between surgical approaches is not yet possible., (© 2017 Royal Australasian College of Surgeons.)

Introduction and Hypothesis: The objective was to evaluate the diagnostic potential of digital rectal examination in the identification of a true rectocele., Methods: This is a retrospective observational study utilising 187 archived data sets of women presenting with lower urinary tract symptoms and/or pelvic organ prolapse between August 2012 and November 2013. Evaluation included a standardised interview, ICS-POPQ, rectal examination and 4D translabial ultrasound. The main outcome measure was the diagnosis of rectocele by digital rectal palpation on Valsalva manoeuvre. This diagnosis correlated with the sonographic diagnosis of rectocele to determine agreement between digital examination and ultrasound findings., Results: Complete data sets were available for 180 participants. On imaging, the mean position of the rectal ampulla was 11.07 (-36.3 to 44.3) mm below the symphysis pubis; 42.8% (77) had a rectocele of a depth of ≥10 mm. On palpation, a rectocele was detected in 60 women (33%). Agreement between palpation and imaging was observed in 77%; the kappa was 0.52 (CI 0.39-0.65). On receiver operator characteristic analysis, the area under the curve was 0.854 for the relationship between rectocele pocket depth and the detection of rectocele on palpation., Conclusion: Moderate agreement was found between digital rectal examination for rectocele and translabial ultrasound findings of a "true rectocele". Digital rectal examination may be used to identify these defects in clinical practice. Extending the clinical examination of prolapse to include rectal examination to palpate defects in the rectovaginal septum may reduce the need for defecatory proctograms for the assessment of obstructive defecation and may help triage patients in the management of posterior compartment prolapse.

Background/aims: Chronic constipation is a common gastrointestinal disorder diagnosed using Rome III criteria. Defecography is a radiographic method used to identify anatomic abnormalities of anorectum. The present study aimed to evaluate the defecographic findings in patients with severe idiopathic chronic constipation., Methods: One hundred patients, who complained of severe idiopathic chronic constipation with abnormal balloon expulsion test, underwent defecography after injection of barium. An analysis of radiographs was performed by an expert radiologist for the diagnosis of descending perineum syndrome, rectocele, enterocele, rectal ulcer, rectal prolapse, fecal residue of post defecation, and etc. Then, they were compared between the two sexes., Results: Normal defecography was only observed in two participants. Descending perineum syndrome was the most common abnormality (73.3%). The results showed that rectocele (80.8%) and descending perineum syndrome (69.2%) were most frequent in women. In males, descending perineum syndrome and rectal prolapse were more prevalent (87% and 43.5%, respectively). Compared with men, rectocele and rectal ulcer were more frequently observed in women (p<0.001, and p=0.04, respectively), while men were more affected by descending perineum syndrome (p=0.04). In total, women had a greater incidence of abnormal defecographic findings compared with men (p=0.02)., Conclusions: Defecography can be performed to detect anatomic abnormalities in patients with severe idiopathic chronic constipation and abnormal balloon expulsion test. This technique can assist physicians in making the most suitable decision for surgical procedure.

Evidence suggests European American (EA) women have two- to five-fold increased odds of having pelvic organ prolapse (POP) when compared with African American (AA) women. However, the role of genetic ancestry in relation to POP risk is not clear. Here we evaluate the association between genetic ancestry and POP in AA women from the Women's Health Initiative Hormone Therapy trial. Women with grade 1 or higher classification, and grade 2 or higher classification for uterine prolapse, cystocele or rectocele at baseline or during follow-up were considered to have any POP (N = 805) and moderate/severe POP (N = 156), respectively. Women with at least two pelvic exams with no indication for POP served as controls (N = 344). We performed case-only, and case-control admixture-mapping analyses using multiple logistic regression while adjusting for age, BMI, parity and global ancestry. We evaluated the association between global ancestry and POP using multiple logistic regression. European ancestry at the individual level was not associated with POP risk. Case-only and case-control local ancestry analyses identified two ancestry-specific loci that may be associated with POP. One locus (Chromosome 15q26.2) achieved empirically-estimated statistical significance and was associated with decreased POP odds (considering grade ≥2 POP) with each unit increase in European ancestry (OR: 0.35; 95% CI: 0.30, 0.57; p-value = 1.48x10-5). This region includes RGMA, a potent regulator of the BMP family of genes. The second locus (Chromosome 1q42.1-q42.3) was associated with increased POP odds with each unit increase in European ancestry (Odds ratio [OR]: 1.69; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.28, 2.22; p-value = 1.93x10-4). Although this region did not reach statistical significance after considering multiple comparisons, it includes potentially relevant genes including TBCE, and ACTA1. Unique non-overlapping European and African ancestry-specific susceptibility loci may be associated with increased POP risk.

Background: After initial enthusiasm in the use of a dedicated curved stapler (CCS-30 Contour Transtar) to perform stapled transanal rectal resection (STARR) for obstructed defecation syndrome (ODS), difficulties have emerged in this surgical technique., Objective: First, to compare surgeons' perception of difficulties of STARR performed with only Transtar versus STARR performed with the combined use of linear staplers and Transtar to cure ODS associated with large internal prolapse and rectocele; second, to compare the postoperative incidence of the urge to defecate between the 2 STARR procedures., Design and Setting: An Italian multicenter randomized trial involving 25 centers of colorectal surgery., Patients: Patients with obstructed defecation syndrome and rectocele or rectal intussusception, treated between January and December 2012., Interventions: Participants were randomly assigned to undergo STARR with a curved alone stapler (CAS group) or with the combined use of linear and curved staplers (LCS group)., Main Outcome Measures: Primary end-points were the evaluation of surgeons' perception of difficulties score and the incidence of the "urge to defecate" at 3-month follow up. Secondary end-points included duration of hospital stay, rates of early and late complications, incidence of "urge to defecate" at 6 and 12 months, success of the procedures at 12 months of follow-up., Results: Of 771 patients evaluated, 270 patients (35%) satisfied the criteria. Follow-up data were available for 254 patients: 128 patients (114 women) in the CAS group (mean age, 52.1; range, 39-70 years) and 126 (116 women) in LCS group (mean age, 50.7 years; range, 41-75 years). The mean surgeons' perception score, was 15.36 (SD, 3.93) in the CAS group and 12.26 (SD, 4.22) in the LCS group (P < .0001; 2-sample t test). At 3-month follow-up, urge to defecate was observed in 18 (14.6%) CAS group patients and in 13 (10.7%) LCS group patients (P = .34; Fisher's exact test). These values drastically decrease at 6 months until no urge to defecate in all patients at 12 months was observed. At 12-month follow-up, a successful outcome was achieved in 100 (78.1%) CAS group patients and in 105 (83.3%) LCS group patients (P = .34; Fisher's exact test). No significant differences between groups were observed in the hospital stay and rates of early or late complications occurring after STARR., Conclusions: STARR with Transtar associated with prior decomposition of prolapse, using linear staplers, seems to be less difficult than that without decomposition. Both procedures appear to be safe and effective in the treatment of obstructed defecation syndrome resulting in similar success rates and complications., (© The Author(s) 2016.)

Background: Defecography is an established method of evaluating dynamic anorectal dysfunction, but conventional defecography does not allow for visualization of anatomic structures., Objective: The purpose of this study was to describe the use of dynamic 3-dimensional endovaginal ultrasonography for evaluating perineal descent in comparison with echodefecography (3-dimensional anorectal ultrasonography) and to study the relationship between perineal descent and symptoms and anatomic/functional abnormalities of the pelvic floor., Design: This was a prospective study., Setting: The study was conducted at a large university tertiary care hospital., Patients: Consecutive female patients were eligible if they had pelvic floor dysfunction, obstructed defecation symptoms, and a score >6 on the Cleveland Clinic Florida Constipation Scale., Interventions: Each patient underwent both echodefecography and dynamic 3-dimensional endovaginal ultrasonography to evaluate posterior pelvic floor dysfunction., Main Outcome Measures: Normal perineal descent was defined on echodefecography as puborectalis muscle displacement ≤2.5 cm; excessive perineal descent was defined as displacement >2.5 cm., Results: Of 61 women, 29 (48%) had normal perineal descent; 32 (52%) had excessive perineal descent. Endovaginal ultrasonography identified 27 of the 29 patients in the normal group as having anorectal junction displacement ≤1 cm (mean = 0.6 cm; range, 0.1-1.0 cm) and a mean anorectal junction position of 0.6 cm (range, 0-2.3 cm) above the symphysis pubis during the Valsalva maneuver and correctly identified 30 of the 32 patients in the excessive perineal descent group. The κ statistic showed almost perfect agreement (κ = 0.86) between the 2 methods for categorization into the normal and excessive perineal descent groups. Perineal descent was not related to fecal or urinary incontinence or anatomic and functional factors (sphincter defects, pubovisceral muscle defects, levator hiatus area, grade II or III rectocele, intussusception, or anismus)., Limitations: The study did not include a control group without symptoms., Conclusions: Three-dimensional endovaginal ultrasonography is a reliable technique for assessment of perineal descent. Using this technique, excessive perineal descent can be defined as displacement of the anorectal junction >1 cm and/or its position below the symphysis pubis on Valsalva maneuver.

Anterior rectocele is a common morphological condition in patients with obstructive defecation syndrome. Typical symptoms include incomplete evacuation, transanal or transvaginal digitation and soiling, which is frequently interpreted as fecal incontinence. Diagnosis of rectocele is made clinically and functional assessment of rectocele can be performed by dynamic imaging, e.g. by magnetic resonance (MR) defecography. Primary treatment should be conservative. Concerning surgical treatment, transanal, transperineal, transvaginal and transabdominal procedures are available. Evidence-based guidelines for surgical treatment are still lacking. The question whether rectocele is a cause or a consequence of obstructive defecation syndrome remains controversial. Accordingly, indications for surgical correction of rectocele should be considered with caution.

Rectal intussusception and ventral rectocele are frequent morphological findings in patients suffering from obstructed defecation syndrome (ODS). After failed conservative treatment a surgical option can be discussed. Surgical approaches include the stapled transanal rectal resection (STARR) procedure, which is performed as a transanal approach by using two circular (PPH01) staplers for ventral and dorsal full-thickness resection of the distal rectum. Both retrospective and prospective studies as well as data from the German STARR registry demonstrated that the STARR procedure is safe and effective for symptom improvement and resolution in ODS associated with rectal intussusception in the short-term; however, disappointing functional results, particularly related to fecal incontinence and urgency, severe complications and high rates of revision surgery have also been documented. In general, based on the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in ODS related to rectal intussusception, patient selection for STARR seems to be the key for success; therefore, this review summarizes and evaluates the indications, surgical technique, results, controversies and current trends of the "conventional" STARR procedure using two circular (PPH01) staplers.

Objective: A growing body of evidence suggests an increased role for apical support in the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse regardless of phenotype. The objective of this study was to determine whether changes in cystocele/rectocele diagnosis and surgical management for the last 30 years reflect this changing paradigm., Methods: Data from the National Hospital Discharge Survey were mined from 1979 to 2009 for diagnosis and procedure codes. Records were categorized according to predefined combinations of diagnosis and procedure codes and weighted according to the National Hospital Discharge Survey data set. Pearson χ test was used to evaluate the changes in population proportions during the study interval., Results: The proportion of isolated cystocele/rectocele diagnoses decreased from 1979 to 2009 (56.5%, n = 88,548, to 34.8%, n = 31,577). The proportion of isolated apical defect diagnoses increased from 1979 to 2009 (38.4%, n = 60,223, to 60.8%, n = 55,153). There was a decrease in the frequency of isolated cystocele/rectocele repair procedures performed from 1979 to 2009 (96.3%, n = 150,980, to 67.7%, n = 61,444), whereas there was an increase in isolated apical defect repair procedures (2.5%, n = 3929, to 22.5%, n = 20,450). The proportion of cystocele/rectocele plus apical defect procedures also increased (1.2%, n = 1879, to 9.7%, n = 8806). Furthermore, 87.0% of all studied diagnostic groups were managed by cystocele/rectocele repair alone., Conclusions: Surgeons have responded to the increased contribution of apical support defects to cystocele/rectocele by modifying their diagnostic coding practices. Unfortunately, their surgical choices remain largely rooted in an older paradigm.

Objective: Chronic constipation affects more than 17% of the global population worldwide, and up to 50% of patients were outlet obstruction constipation (OOC). Women and the elderly are most likely to be affected, due to female-specific risk factors, such as menopause, parity and multiparity. The aim of our study was to investigate the association of compartment defects in anorectal and pelvic floor dysfunction with female outlet obstruction constipation (OOC) by MR defecography., Patients and Methods: Fifty-six consecutive women diagnosed with outlet obstruction constipation from October 2009 to July 2011 were included. They were categorized into the following groups: anorectal disorder only group (27 patients) and anorectal disorder plus multi-compartment pelvic disorder group (29 patients). Relevant measurements were taken at rest, during squeezing and straining., Results: Anismus was significantly more common in the anorectal disorder group compared to the multi-compartment pelvic disorder group. Conversely, rectocele, rectal prolapse, and descending perineum were significantly more common in the multi-compartment pelvic disorder group compared to the anorectal disorder group. Of the total 56 OOC patients, 34 (60.7%) exhibited anismus and 38 (67.9%) rectocele. Among the anismus patients, there were 8 patients (23.5%) with combined cystocele, and 6 patients (17.6%) with combined vaginal/cervical prolapse. Among the rectocele patients, there were 23 patients (60.5%) with combined cystocele and 18 patients (47.4%) with combined vaginal/cervical prolapse. With respect to anorectal defects, 13 anismus patients (38.2%) were with signal posterior pelvic defects, 4 rectocele patients (10.5%) presented with signal posterior pelvic defects., Conclusions: Inadequate defecatory propulsion due to outlet obstruction constipation is often associated with multi-compartment pelvic floor disorders, whereas not about dyssynergic defecation.

Aim: Faecal incontinence (FI) requires careful assessment of its aetiology to determine the most effective treatment. The aims of this study were to evaluate MRI defaecography in FI and to compare it with clinical examination combined with rigid rectoscopy in assessing the pelvic floor in patients with FI., Method: Consecutive patients with FI referred over a 3-year period to our tertiary centre for MRI defaecography were retrospectively studied. MRI images of the pelvic floor were compared with clinical examination and anuscopy and rectoscopy., Results: Seventy-four female patients [mean age 60.5 (30.0-81.0) years] were recruited. MRI defaecography showed conditions which often overlapped, including internal intussusception in 19 (25.7%) and pelvic floor descent in 24 (32.4%). There was average agreement between MRI and clinical examination for a significant anterior rectocoele (κ = 0.40) and poor agreement between MRI and anuscopy/rectoscopy for intra-rectal (κ = 0.06) and intra-anal intussusception (κ = 0.11)., Conclusion: Other than for anterior rectocoele, there is poor correlation between MRI defaecography and clinical examination with rigid rectoscopy. MRI can detect a variety of abnormal static and dynamic pelvic disorders. This includes enterocoele, which could result in a modification of the surgical approach to intussusception and anterior rectocoele., (Colorectal Disease © 2014 The Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland.)

Introduction and Hypothesis: The standardized evaluation of posterior compartment prolapse using the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POP-Q) system is limited. The primary objective of this study is to develop and validate the interexaminer reliability of a new system for assessing the posterior vaginal wall for the presence of a rectocele., Methods: This was a cross-sectional study of women presenting to an academic urogynecology clinic. Subjects underwent a routine pelvic examination that included a standard POP-Q followed by two Standardized Digital Rectal Exams (SDRE) by two different providers, each blinded to the other's results. The SDRE measures the distance from the leading edge of a posterior bulge to the hymen with a finger in the distal rectum - first visually and then an actual measured distance using a marked cotton swab (Q-tip measurement). Correlations between examiners for the SDRE and the POP-Q were analyzed using Pearson's correlation coefficient (ρ)., Results: Eight attending and fellow urogynecologists examined 50 subjects. Mean age was 57.3 years, mean BMI 30.9 kg/m(2), with an overall median POP-Q stage 2 (range 0-3), and median posterior POP-Q stage 1 (range 0-3). Overall, 54 % of women had a noteworthy rectocele by typical digital rectal exam. Interexaminer correlations with SDRE for both the visual assessment (ρ = 0.697, p < 0.0001) and the Q-tip measurement (ρ = 0.767, p = p < 0.001) were strong. The intraexaminer visual assessment and the Q-tip measurement were highly correlated (ρ = 0.934, p = <0.001)., Conclusion: This standardized rectal examination provides a consistent method for the reporting of distal rectoceles that can lend additional information to the POP-Q exam.

Background and Aim: Dynamic pelvic magnetic resonance imaging (DP-MRI) offers a comprehensive evaluation of pelvic organ structure in addition to functional information regarding evacuation. Opportunity to apply this technology can be limited due to regional lack of availability. Ideally, clues from standard anorectal testing could predict abnormalities on DP-MRI, leading to its efficient use. The aim of this study is to determine whether high-resolution anorectal manometry (HR-ARM) correlates with findings on DP-MRI., Methods: This is a retrospective study of HR-ARM performed on patients with constipation who also underwent DP-MRI. Studies were reviewed for significant findings including posterior pelvic organ prolapse, rectocele > 3 cm, rectal intussusception, and anorectal angle. Statistical analysis was performed using Pearson's correlation coefficient, Student's t-test, and Fisher's exact test., Results: Twenty-three patients undergoing HR-ARM (age range 25-78) also underwent DP-MRI. All were female; 76% were Caucasian. Twenty had significant structural findings: small pelvic prolapse (n = 2), moderate pelvic prolapse (n = 10), large pelvic prolapse (n = 9), rectocele (n = 8), or rectal intussusception (n = 3). Only intrarectal pressure on HR-ARM weakly correlated with size of rectocele (r = 0.46; P = 0.03) and degree of pelvic organ prolapse (r = 0.48; P = 0.02). The remainder of the HR-ARM parameters did not significantly correlate with DP-MRI findings. Patients with dyssynergy were not more likely to have rectoceles > 3 cm (44.4% versus 35.7%; P = 0.5) or large prolapses (44.4% versus 50%, P = 1.0), compared with those without dyssynergy, on HR-ARM., Conclusion: We were unable to find a correlation between HR-ARM findings and structural pelvic defects on DP-MRI. Therefore, these two technologies provide complementary information in the evaluation of defecatory dysfunction., (© 2014 Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Foundation and Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.)

Pelvic Floor Disorders (PFD) are a major public health problem in the world and decrease seriously the patient's quality of life. In case of recurrence after surgery or complex prolapse, imaging techniques can be used. Dynamic MRI, introduced in the early 1990s, offers information of the four compartments of the pelvis with a high resolution and a direct visualization of muscles and fascias in multiple planes. But for a practical use, such an expensive exam should be well correlated to symptoms and clinical examination or change surgical approach. The aim of our review was to precise the evidence regarding techniques, and indication of dynamic MRI in the assessment of pelvic floor disorders in daily practice. The first part is a review of available studies on methods of carrying out the dynamic MRI. The second part consists on the comparison of dynamic MRI to other assessment methods in case of pelvic floor disorders. Results emphasize the lack of strong level studies about the interest of dynamic MRI in the diagnosis and surgical management of pelvic organ prolapse. Although dynamic MRI appears highly reproducible between examiners, especially for the anterior compartment, its correlation with the degree of prolapse or the symptoms appears low. The most interesting field of application seems the detection of levator ani (LA) avulsion with a higher risk of prolapse and recidive in case of LA defects. More prospective, randomized, comparative studies have to be done., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: Surgical treatment of rectocele represents a controversial issue on the boundary between medical specialisations with many different corrective surgical techniques. Is it possible, based on the available knowledge, to determine an optimal operative technique for rectocele repair?, Methods: Complex literature search focusing on the identification of rectocele surgical repair studies in the MEDLINE, PubMed and Google Scholar databases. The aim of this paper is to offer a comprehensive review of the contemporary situation as regards rectocele surgical repair., Results: There are four main possible approaches for rectocele repair - transvaginal, transanal, transperineal and transabdominal. Posterior colporrhaphy with levatoroplasty is the traditional transvaginal technique, performed at most gynaecological departments in various modifications. Defect-specific rectocele repair and mesh repair represent newer transvaginal techniques which offer better postoperative functional results, although with the risk of possible serious complications. Traditional transanal rectocele repair (vertical and horizontal plication of the rectovaginal septum) is currently performed only rarely due to its worse results in comparison with the transvaginal approach. Rectal resection using endostaplers (STARR and TRANSTAR techniques) is a modern transanal technique. Stapled rectocele repair leads to the correction of anorectal anatomical conditions and to the improvement of obstructive defecation symptoms with acceptable morbidity. Transperineal approach is usually used in patients with rectocele and anal incontinence due to a proven sphincter defect. Transabdominal laparoscopic approach is based on vaginorectopexy by means of mesh implantation, and it is indicated especially in patients with rectocele and enterocele., Conclusion: Based on the results of published studies, it is not possible to determine clear guidelines for rectocele surgical repair. Posterior colporrhaphy and stapled transanal repair are the most common techniques in practice. Prospective randomized studies focusing on the comparison between transvaginal and stapled transanal approach for rectocele repair are needed.

Defecography is one of the most valuable methods for the evaluation of pelvic floor disorders. Interest in this technique has rapidly expanded owing to its increased understanding of the multifactorial pathophysiology involving evacuation disorders. The value of defecography has reached a consensus in adulthood but is still limited in childhood. In this study, defecography was carried out in 8 volunteers and 96 constipation children. The results revealed that defecography can help to identify evacuatory pelvic floor disorders in childhood constipation. It is safe and feasible and should be used as a screening method for childhood constipation., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: The surgical indications for symptomatic rectocele are undefined, and surgery has high recurrence rates. We implemented magnetic resonance imaging defecography (MRID) to determine if utilizing strict inclusion criteria for rectocele repair improves outcomes., Methods: Patients with obstructive defecation syndrome (ODS) who underwent dynamic MRID were evaluated. Indications for surgical repair were defecation requiring manual assistance and the following MRID results: anterior defect >2 cm, incomplete evacuation, and the absence of perineal descent. Primary outcomes were the change in quality of life (QOL) scores and recurrence., Results: From 2006 to 2013, 143 patients who presented with ODS underwent MRID. Seventeen patients met the criteria for repair. Recurrence was low (5.8%) with a median follow-up of 23 months, QOL scores improved from 57.3 to 76.5 (P = .041)., Conclusions: A minority of patients (12%) with ODS met the above criteria for rectocele repair. Patients who underwent repair had a significant improvement in QOL and low recurrence rate., (Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: Provide insight into how gynaecologists and surgeons name, diagnose and treat a rectocele and identify the differences between these two professional groups., Design: Questionnaire survey., Methods: We sent an online survey with 16 multiple-choice questions to gynaecologists and surgeons from two national working groups., Results: There is no discernible consensus on nomenclature, diagnostics and treatment. Gynaecologists and surgeons each choose their own approach., Conclusion: It is in the patient's interest to draw up a joint guideline; however, multidisciplinary cooperation is only possible if gynaecologists and surgeons speak the same language.

Pelvic floor disorders present very differently with regard to symptoms and manifestation. Both diagnostic and treatment options require specific experience and an interdisciplinary approach. Diagnostic work-up is primarily based on medical history, physical examination and procto-rectoscopy. Furthermore, endosonography and perineal sonography have also gained importance. In almost all cases following these basic examinations conservative therapy options should be considered. As the interdisciplinary concept is very important, for careful diagnosis of pelvic floor disorders it became crucial to find an adequate form of treatment. Every decision for surgical therapy should not only focus on the results of previous examinations but should also consider the individual situation of each patient. In pelvic floor disorders a large variety of symptoms are confronted with a vast number of different and often highly specific procedures. The decisions on who to treat and how to treat are not only based on individual patient requests and desires but also on the experience and preference of the surgeon.

Background: Laparoscopic ventral rectopexy for rectal prolapse combines the advantages of a minimally invasive approach with the low recurrence rate observed after abdominal procedures. To date, only a few long-term functional studies and no quality of life assessment are available. The aim of this study was to assess long-term functional outcomes and quality of life after laparoscopic ventral rectopexy., Methods: Between January 2007 and December 2008, patients who underwent laparoscopic ventral rectopexy for full-thickness external rectal prolapse and/or rectocele were prospectively included. Fecal incontinence and constipation were scored (Wexner score and Rome II criteria). Quality of life was assessed using the gastrointestinal quality of life form (GIQLI)., Results: Thirty-three patients were included and 30 (91 %) completed all the questionnaires. There was no morbidity or mortality. The mean length of hospital stay was 5 ± 1 days (range 3-7 days). After a mean follow-up of 42 ± 7 months (range 32-52 months), recurrence of rectocele was observed in two patients (6 %). At the end of follow-up, constipation was improved in 13/18 patients (72 %) and two patients (7 %) presented de novo constipation. The patients' Wexner score improved between preoperative status and end of follow-up (12 ± 7 vs. 4 ± 3, p = 0.002). Compared to the preoperative score, quality of life significantly improved over time: 77 ± 21 preoperatively versus 107 ± 17 at 1 year versus 109 ± 18 at the end of follow-up (p < 0.001)., Conclusions: This prospective study showed that laparoscopic ventral rectopexy was associated with excellent postoperative outcomes and a low long-term recurrence rate. Long-term functional results were excellent in terms of continence, with significant improvement of quality of life and without worsening constipation.

Background: Laparoscopic ventral recto(colpo)pexy (LVR) is a minimally invasive, autonomic nerve-sparing technique to treat rectal prolapse syndromes. The position of the mesh on the anterior aspect of the rectum in the rectovaginal septum allows correction of concomitant rectocele and enterocele., Methods: Demographic, perioperative, and follow-up data of consecutive patients were analyzed in order to audit our 10-years' experience with the technique., Results: From January 1999 to December 2008, 405 patients (93% female) underwent LVR for internal rectal prolapse (45.9%, n = 186), total rectal prolapse (43%, n = 174) and rectocele or enterocele (11.1%, n = 45). Mean age was 54.6 years (SD 15). The median hospital stay was 4 days (range 2-21). Conversion rate was 2%. There was no postoperative mortality. At a mean follow-up of 25.3 months, recurrence was observed in 4.6% (19 patients). Most often detachment of the mesh at the sacral promontory was found. Late complications occurred in 18% of patients. In five patients, LVR combined with perineotomy was complicated by mesh erosion into the vagina. Mesh erosion was not observed after LVR without perineotomy. Symptomatic improvement was observed in 85% of patients with total rectal prolapse and in 70% of patients with internal rectal prolapse (p < 0.050). The difference was mainly due to a lesser effect on obstructed defecation symptoms., Conclusions: LVR, with or without perineotomy, appears to be safe and feasible, with relatively low morbidity. Functional outcome data support its efficacy. The indication for LVR in patients with internal rectal prolapse could be optimised.

Background/aims: The causes of functional anorectal outlet obstruction (outlet obstruction) include functional defecation disorder (FDD), rectocele, and rectal intussusception (RI). It is unclear whether outlet obstruction is associated with rectal hyposensitivity (RH) in patients with functional constipation (FC). The aim of this study was to determine the association between RH and outlet obstruction in patients with FC., Methods: This was a retrospective study using a prospectively collected constipation database, and the population comprised 107 patients with FC (100 females; median age, 49 years). We performed anorectal manometry, defecography, rectal barostat, and at least two tests (balloon expulsion test, electromyography, or colon transit time study). RH was defined as one or more sensory threshold pressures raised beyond the normal range on rectal barostat. We investigated the association between the presence of RH and an outlet obstruction such as large rectocele (> 2 cm in size), RI, or FDD., Results: Forty patients (37.4%) had RH. No significant difference was observed in RH between patients with small and large rectoceles (22 [44.9%] vs. 18 [31%], respectively; p = 0.140). No significant difference was observed in RH between the non-RI and RI groups (36 [36.7%] vs. 4 [30.8%], respectively; p = 0.599). Furthermore, no significant difference in RH was observed between the non-FDD and FDD groups (19 [35.8%] vs. 21 [38.9%], respectively; p = 0.745)., Conclusions: RH and outlet obstruction are common entities but appear not to be significantly associated.

Aim: Accurate and reliable imaging of pelvic floor dynamics is important for tailoring treatment in pelvic floor disorders; however, two imaging modalities are available. Barium proctography (BaP) is widely used, but involves a significant radiation dose. Magnetic resonance (MR) proctography allows visualization of all pelvic midline structures but patients are supine. This project investigates whether there are measurable differences between BaP and MR proctography. Patient preference for the tests was also investigated., Methods: Consecutive patients referred for BaP were invited to participate (National Research Ethics Service approved). Participants underwent BaP in Poole and MR proctography in Dorchester. Proctograms were reported by a consultant radiologist with pelvic floor subspecialization., Results: A total of 71 patients were recruited. Both tests were carried out on 42 patients. Complete rectal emptying was observed in 29% (12/42) on BaP and in 2% (1/42) on MR proctography. Anismus was reported in 29% (12/42) on BaP and 43% (18/42) on MR proctography. MR proctography missed 31% (11/35) of rectal intussusception detected on BaP. In 10 of these cases no rectal evacuation was achieved during MR proctography. The measure of agreement between grade of rectal intussusception was fair (κ=0.260) although MR proctography tended to underestimate the grade. Rectoceles were extremely common but clinically relevant differences in size were evident. Patients reported that they found MR proctography less embarrassing but harder to empty their bowel., Conclusions: The results demonstrate that MR proctography under-reports pelvic floor abnormalities especially where there has been poor rectal evacuation., (© 2012 The Authors. Colorectal Disease © 2012 The Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland.)

As a consequence of demographic changes, outlet obstruction represents an increasingly common disease. The presence and ample interactions of morphological and functional pathologies contribute to the complexity of pelvic floor dysfunction. Additionally, multiple compartments of the pelvic floor are frequently affected. MR defaecography allows for the simultaneous and detailed assessment of morphological as well as functional changes of the pelvic floor. Hence, this approach constitutes an integral part of the diagnostic work-up and preoperative evaluation of the anorectum. The supine patient position can be regarded as a drawback compared to conventional defaecography, as sufficient emptying of the rectum can be impaired or even rendered impossible in individual cases. This inherent disadvantage is, however, compensated by the high anatomic resolution, the possibility of multiplanar imaging, easy execution and especially the lack of ionising radiation. Consequently, MR defaecography is considered the method of choice for the routine evaluation of functional anorectal disorders., (Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.)

Introduction and Hypothesis: The relationships of Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POP-Q) items pb and Bp with defecatory dysfunction were evaluated with the hypothesis that increased values for both items would correlate with symptoms of stool trapping., Methods: Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI-20) results and POP-Q exams from 1,663 urogynecology patients were compiled in a database. Rectocele was defined as POP-Q point Bp > -0.5 and perineocele as pb >3. PFDI-20 questions were used to compare defecatory symptoms and bother in women with and without rectocele and perineocele., Results: While perineocele was not associated with symptoms or bother, women with isolated rectoceles had higher rates of splinting (p < 0.001) and incomplete evacuation (p = 0.001) and higher bother scores (p < 0.001) than those with neither rectocele nor perineocele., Conclusions: The POP-Q Bp point, but not the pb measurement, correlates with symptoms of defecatory dysfunction.

Rectocele is defined as the herniation of rectal wall due to a rectovaginal septum defect in direction of the vagina. In most of cases it is a result of vaginal delivery or repeated increases of intra-abdominal pressure due to chronic constipation. Some patients can develop rectocele as a consequence of congenital or inherited weakness of the pelvic support system. The rectopexy procedure by a single mechanical stapler allows to ablate the exceeding tissue. This surgery is performed through transanal access without laparotomy, by means of a circular stapler which simultaneously resects portion of the rectal wall and re-anastomizes it. Also the technique of sequential transfixed stitches (TSTS) represents a minimally invasive procedure for the rectocele treatment, allowing the performance of a complete plasty of rectal wall through transanal access. Hence, starting from a more effective stadiation of rectocele, the authors of this study will show the advantages of an endorectal approach for the treatment of the above-mentioned disease using both methods. A total of 25 female patients attending our colonproctology outpatient department, with an age ranging between 38 and 63 years, have been selected for our study; following a careful assessment of stadiation, they have undergone rectopexy with circular stapler first, thereafter fulfilling the surgery with TSTS. the mean duration of hospital stay was 2.5 days (range 2-3). Twelve patients out of 25 have shown early complications, and 11 patients late ones. Among the early complications, 3 patients reported pain (12 %), 3 patients urinary retention (12 %), and 2 patients bleeding (8 %). Among late complications, 5 cases of urgency defecation disorders (>4 months) (20 %), 1 intestinal flatus incontinence (4 %), 1 stenosis (4 %), 2 prolonged pain and 2 cases of persistent obstructive defecation syndrome were reported. No cases of life-threatening local or pelvic sepsis as well as of rectovaginal fistulae were reported. At the 6 months post-surgery evaluation, neither rectocele recurrence nor prolapse was observed. The association of circular stapler and TSTS in the rectopexy treatment of rectocele showed its short-term efficacy, producing an improvement of patient's clinical conditions, without inducing further alterations of pelvic statics, of the sphincteric tone as well as of rectum emptiness deficit.

Objective: This study aimed to describe magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in women with defecatory dysfunction who perform manual splinting., Methods: This is a retrospective study of 29 patients from a single urogynecology center who presented with complaints of defecatory dysfunction and who reported manual splinting to assist with bowel movements. Patients were scheduled for an MRI study with a novel "splinting" protocol to evaluate the effects of their manual splinting on the pelvic floor. The protocol involved asking patients to splint during the MRI, as they normally would when trying to defecate. The goal was to evaluate any change in pelvic anatomy and compensation for an anatomic defect that could potentially lead to their defecatory dysfunction. Magnetic resonance images of the pelvis were obtained at rest, with pelvic floor contraction, with Valsalva, and during manual splinting. These images were then reviewed by radiologists who evaluated various parameters, including anorectal angle, levator ani muscle integrity, and the presence of rectocele, cystocele, apical prolapse, and enterocele. The external and internal anal sphincters were also evaluated for continuity., Results: From September 2008 to October 2010, 29 women reported defecatory dysfunction and the need for manual splinting. Their mean (SD) age was 55.2 (10.5) years. Magnetic resonance images showed a rectocele in 86.2% of the study group, cystocele in 75.9%, enterocele in 10.3%, and a defect of the levator ani muscles in 17.2%. Twenty-one (72.4%) women had more than 1 of these defects. In addition, 27.6% had an anorectal angle less than 90 degrees or greater than 105 degrees.Patients in the study group splinted in the vagina (58.6%), on the perineum (31.0%), or on the buttock (10.3%). In all but 1 woman (96.6%), splinting improved or completely corrected the identified defect(s) as evidenced with MRI. Among those who used vaginal splinting, 52.9% of defects were corrected and 47.1% were improved. Perineal splinting corrected 55.6% and improved 33.3% of cases and was ineffective in 11.1% of cases, whereas buttock splinting corrected 33.3% and improved 66.7% of cases., Conclusions: Most women in our study group who used manual splinting to assist in defecation are compensating for a pelvic floor defect that can be detected on MRI. Magnetic resonance imaging of the pelvis may help elucidate the etiology of the defecatory dysfunction in some women and may assist pelvic reconstructive surgeons in planning surgical correction of pelvic floor defects. Magnetic resonance imaging may also identify defects in the pelvic floor that are, at the present time, not amenable to surgical correction.

Unlabelled: The aim of current study was to evaluate in complex the effectiveness of transvaginal mesh implants in women with obstructed defecation (OD) syndrome based on the comparison of preoperative and postoperative results of objective diagnostic tools and quality of life parameters., Methods: from prospectively collected database of patients treated in our department those who were treated for OD by means of transvaginally placed mesh implants were chosen. The comparison of pre- and postoperative results of objective evaluation (prolapse stage according to POP-Q system, X-ray defecography - XR-DG and MRI defecography - MRI-DG) as well quality of life parameters (Wexner constipation score and validated Russian version of King's Health Questionnaire) was undertaken. Treatment effectiveness was evaluated using Сlinical Global Impression - Improvement (CGI-I) и Patient Global Impression - Improvement (PGI-I) scales., Results: In 2007-2011 40 women (mean age 51.8±10.7 years) underwent transvaginal pelvic floor reconstruction with mesh implants. All of them had ≤3 stage pelvic prolapse (POP-Q) and rectocele. Preoperative XR-DG and MRI-DG helped reveal rectocele >4 cm in 85 and 43% of women respectively, 68% of patients had cystocele and 18% - genital prolapse. In 21 case mesh implants for posterior pelvic floor reinforcement were used, in other cases mesh implants for total pelvic floor repair were placed. At a mean of 19 months after the operation manual examination revealed that 90% of women had 1 stage posterior pelvic proplapse, at XR-DG and MRI-DG significant reduction of rectocele size and depth of pelvic floor descent was noted. Besides that significant decrease in mean values of Wexner constipation score and King's health questionnaire was demonstrated. Though mean values of global treatment effectiveness assessment on CGI-I and PGI-I scales didn't significantly differ (2.13±0.85 и 2.68±1.42, р=0.06), the rate of agreement between these scales measured at each single case was very low (κ-0.154), this reflects that clinician has more positive perception of disease dynamics due to treatment than the patient. When mean values of dynamics in different indexes of King's health questionnaire were compared it was demonstrated that the index of quality of life influence (3.53±0.96) was significantly higher than the indexes of OD influence (2.63±1.08) and mechanical symptoms (2.58±1.04), this suggests that while the manifestations of OD syndrome are significantly improved patient quality of life doesn't change substantially., Conclusions: XR-DG is more specific than MRI-DG in evaluating the size of rectocele and the depth of pelvic floor descent; the use of mesh implants in surgical treatment of OD syndrome results in significant reduction of rectocele and prolapse stage in 90% of patients; clinical evaluation of treatment effectiveness based on objective examination is more optimistic than subjective perception of treatment results by the patient, this indicates that anatomic correction does not always lead to quality of life improvement.

Aim: Dynamic evacuation proctography (DEP) is still considered the gold standard diagnostic procedure for posterior compartment pelvic disorders. The study aimed to assess the value of dynamic transperineal ultrasound (DTPU) compared with DEP in patients with obstructed defaecation syndrome (ODS)., Method: In a prospective observational study, 54 consecutive female patients referred with symptoms of ODS between January and June 2009 were studied by clinical evaluation (including Wexner score), perineal ultrasound and defaecography. The tests were analysed by two experienced investigators unaware of the opinion of the other., Results: DEP revealed a rectocoele in 35 (64%), intussusception in 27 (50%) and enterocoele in 10 (18.5%) patients. DTPU revealed a rectocoele in 32 (59%), intussusception in 23 (42%) and enterocoele in 11 (20%) patients. The degree of agreement of the two techniques calculated using the Cohen kappa method was 0.69 for rectocoele, 0.74 for intussusception and 0.86 for enterocoele. In patients with grade 2-3 rectocoele, the agreement was 0.88. There was no significant difference between the two techniques in the measurement of the anorectal angle or in the detection of dyssynergic contraction of the puborectalis. DTPU was better at identifying multiple diagnoses and associated pelvic floor alterations., Conclusion: The degree of concordance between the two techniques is good. DTPU is accurate for asymptomatic patients with ODS and can be considered an alternative to DEP in the assessment of such patients., (© 2011 The Authors. Colorectal Disease © 2011 The Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland.)

Purpose: This study was undertaken to explore the capabilities of an open-configuration, low-field, tilting, magnetic resonance (MR) system for investigating pelvic floor disorders and to compare the results obtained with the patient in the semiorthostatic and supine positions., Materials and Methods: Eighteen female patients with a diagnosis of pelvic floor disorder (physical examination and conventional defecography) underwent dynamic MR defecography (MRD) with a 0.25-T tilting MR system (G-scan, Esaote). Images were obtained after administration of contrast agent into the rectum, bladder and vagina in both the orthostatic and supine positions. Three-dimensional T2-weighted hybrid contrast-enhanced (HYCE) sequences and dynamic T1-weighted gradient echo (GE) sequences were acquired at rest, during maximal contraction of the anal sphincter, straining and defecation., Results: Good image quality was obtained in 15/18 patients; three presented severe artefacts due to motion, and three had incontinence, which hampered the functional studies. Better anatomical detail was obtained with MRD compared with conventional defecography. Three prolapses were observed in the semiorthostatic position only, and seven were found to be more severe in the orthostatic than in the supine position., Conclusions: Dynamic MRD with an open-configuration, low-field, tilting MR system is a feasible and promising tool for studying the pelvic floor. Larger series are necessary to assess its real diagnostic value.

Chronic constipation is a symptom complex caused by a wide variety of diseases. Primary causes of constipation, including enterocele, rectocele, rectum prolapse and intussusception, involve changes of the bowel which either delay or prevent the passage of bowel content. This condition has been termed "obstructed defaecation syndrome" (ODS).This article is based on clinical experience and a review of selected literature. The complexity of chronic constipation warrants interdisciplinary work-up and treatment. The diagnostic work-up includes taking a focus on the history of patient's complaints. This can be objectified using a standardized scoring system, e. g. Longo score. Gynaecological examinations must be performed on all female patients. Intraluminal abnormalities are best excluded by colonoscopy and rectoscopy. An abnormal score in combination with negative findings on endoscopy and gynaecologic examinations warrant a radiological assessment with a defaecogramm in symptomatic patients. Treatment is usually medical, involving changes in life style, bowel habits and the use of laxatives. Biofeedback has been shown to be effective in some patients. Surgery is indicated for selected patient who do not improve after medical treatment. A range of surgical procedures have been shown to be effective in the treatment of chronic constipation. The minimal invasive double stapled trans anal rectum resection (STARR procedure) has been proven effective in treating rectocele and rectum prolapse in selected patients. The advantages of the STARR procedure include: short hospital stay, reduced postoperative pain and an early return to work. We consider this procedure as safe and effective when performed by a well trained surgeon in selected patients.

Posterior compartment prolapse can be thought of as a relaxation or separation of the tissues of the rectovaginal septum and perineal body. This article reviews the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and surgical management of rectoceles and relaxed vaginal outlet. With proper treatment, a continued active lifestyle and improved quality of life usually can be restored; however, this result requires a thorough understanding of pelvic anatomy and pathophysiology and experience in performing the appropriate surgical procedures., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Rectocele is defined as an erniation of the anterior rectal and vaginal wall in the vaginal lumen due to the loss of rectovaginal septum. Rectal mucosal prolapse was characterized by the protrusion of the mucosa alone in the rectal lumen. The Authors, herein, reported the results of a new surgical technique with the excision of one or more mucosal or muco-muscolar flaps and reconstruction with Sequential Transfixed Stitch Technique (STST) using a anal retractor designed by them., Materials and Methods: The new surgical technique was applied to 40 consecutive patients with rectal mucosal prolapse and 20 with symptomatic rectocele of III degree assessed with proctological evaluation, digital examination of the anal canal, sphere test, defecography and total colonoscopy were submitted to STST. Patients with previous colorectal or pelvic surgery were excluded from the study. The quality of life was defined using a questionnaire before surgery, at 3 and 6 months of follow-up. Data were evaluated according to the Agachan-Wexner score., Results: The new technique was correctly performed in all the cases without early and late complications. The mean value was of 18.2 according to the Agachan-Wexner for patients with rectocele and 17.6 for rectal mucosal prolapse, both significantly improved score in comparison to pre-operatory condition (p<0.05). Surgical procedure with flaps excision and manual procedure of STST was judged satisfactory in 89% of the cases., Conclusions: The treatment of symptomatic rectocele and rectal mucosal prolapse with multiple excision of exceeding tissue flaps and the reconstruction with STST manually conducted showed optimal results for the surgical treatment of in our experience with a significant improvement of quality of life referred by the patients and absence of significant post-operative side effects.