Internal rectal prolapse: rubber-band ligation as treatment for a neglected disease.

Internal rectal prolapse was diagnosed in 21 patients with signs and symptoms consistent with this syndrome. They all underwent rubber-band ligation of the excess mucosa--2.2 procedures per patient on average. Eight patients became asymptomatic and 13 significantly improved clinically. Six patients, in spite of the clinical improvement, had rectoscopic evidence of recurrence. No side effects or complications were noted. Internal rectal prolapse has to be considered in the differential diagnosis of anorectal syndromes. Rubber-band ligation is a safe, simple procedure, leading to resolution of symptoms, and may prevent progression to total rectal prolapse.