Long-term results of transanal repair of rectocele using linear stapler.

PURPOSE: This study was designed to determine the long-term outcomes of transanal rectocele repair using a linear stapler.

METHODS

Between 1989 and 1999, 21 patients with symptomatic rectocele were enrolled for this study. Median age at time of presentation was 52 (range, 21-75) years. All patients underwent a transanal repair using a linear stapler. End evaluation to assess long-term results was performed after a median duration of follow-up of 58 (range, 12-118) months. Patients were asked about current problems with constipation, use of laxatives, incontinence, vaginal digitalization, presence of vaginal bulge, pain, bleeding, and sexual dysfunction.

RESULTS

The postoperative course was uneventful in all cases. Sixteen (76 percent) patients had symptomatic relief. The operation reduced symptoms of obstructed defecation (21 vs. 5, preoperative vs. postoperative; P < 0.001) and the need of vaginal digitalization (21 vs. 6; P < 0.001). Only three patients (14 percent) showed no sign of improvement. Two patients (9 percent) had temporary improvement for three years before recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

Transanal repair of rectocele using a linear stapler is an easy, safe, and useful procedure for the correction of symptomatic rectocele. Successful long-term outcome can be achieved with this procedure.