[Perineal resection of rectal prolapse in risk patients].

A method for perineal resection of rectal prolapse in high-risk patients which uses a circular stapling device was evaluated. After the external rectal layer was dissected 2 cm above the dentate line, the sigmoid colon was mobilized distally as far as possible. An anastomosis was then performed with the stapler under gentle tension on the sigmoid colon. None of the eight patients died; mucosal prolapse recurred in one patient. Continence was improved in six of the eight patients.