Defecography uses video x-rays to look at the shape and position of the rectum as it empties. We describe this test later. Another form of rectal descent is rectal prolapse. When the rectum falls down in the pelvis it can drop so far that it actually drops through the anal opening as a pink fleshy round lump. This is called rectal prolapse.
Rectal prolapse can block the anal opening causing constipation .
Rectal prolapse is not a cancer and it will not turn into a cancer. Therefore, treatment is necessary only if it is causing a problem. Symptoms of prolapse which might indicate the need for surgery include persistent bleeding, chronic constipation, difficulty with rectal emptying, straining to move the bowels, mucous drainage, protruding lump, inability to control solid, liquid, or gas bowel movements, or progressive weakening of the anal sphincter muscles. The aim of the surgery is to remove the extra rectal length and re-suspend the rectum from the lower backbone. Prolapse can be repaired by either anal surgery or abdominal surgery.