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Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2003; 16(1): 061-070
DOI: 10.1055/s-2003-39038
Copyright © 2002 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

Rectocele Repair: The Gynecologic Approach

Jennifer Pollak, G. Willy Davila
  • Department of Gynecology, Section of Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Weston, Florida
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Publication History

Publication Date:
07 May 2003 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Gynecologists commonly perform rectocele repairs to address a herniation of the rectum into the posterior vaginal wall which results in a vaginal bulge. Women with rectoceles generally complain of perineal and vaginal pressure, obstructive defecation, constipation, and the need to splint or digitally reduce the vagina in order to effectuate a bowel movement. Rectoceles arise from either a tear or stretching of the rectovaginal fascia, and are commonly repaired by gynecologists via a posterior colporrhaphy. Although there are high rates of anatomic cures, there are conflicting reports with regard to functional outcome and many report postoperative dyspareunia. A modified repair, the discrete fascial defect repair, shows promising anatomical and functional results.

KEYWORDS

Rectocele - posterior colporrhaphy - site-specific defect rectocele repair - dyspareunia - defecation disorders

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