KUMJ | VOL. 24 | NO. 2 | ISSUE 95 | APRIL - JUNE, 2026

Perioperative Outcomes of Laparoscopic Rectopexy for the Treatment of Full-Thickness Rectal Prolapse: A singlecenter experience from Dhulikhel Hospital, Nepal
Malla BR, Laudari U, Khadka D, Rawal R, Regmi S, Jha AK, Mainali S

Abstract:
Background Complete rectal prolapse (CRP) is a full-thickness circumferential protrusion of the rectum through the anal canal that significantly impairs quality of life. Laparoscopic rectopexy has emerged as the preferred abdominal approach because of its favorable perioperative outcomes. However, evidence from Nepal remains limited. Objective To evaluate the perioperative outcomes of laparoscopic rectopexy in patients with complete rectal prolapse treated at a tertiary care center in Nepal. Method A retrospective observational study was conducted using a prospectively maintained database of patients who underwent laparoscopic rectopexy for complete rectal prolapse at Dhulikhel Hospital between January 2015 and July 2023. Patient demographics, operative details, perioperative outcomes, postoperative complications, length of hospital stay, and recurrence were reviewed and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Result Thirty-four patients (27 females and 7 males) underwent laparoscopic rectopexy during the study period. All patients presented with a protruding rectal mass per anus, with constipation and diarrhoea being the most common associated symptoms. Four patients who underwent laparoscopic ventral rectopexy had concomitant cystocele. The median operative time was 200 minutes, and the median postoperative hospital stay was 3 days. There was no perioperative mortality. During follow-up of up to 96 months, one patient developed recurrent rectal prolapse. Postoperative complications included urinary incontinence (11.8%), constipation (8.8%), discitis (2.9%), and postoperative pain (2.9%). Conclusion Laparoscopic rectopexy is a safe and effective treatment for complete rectal prolapse, with low perioperative morbidity, a short hospital stay, and a low recurrence rate. These findings support its feasibility as a minimally invasive treatment option in resource-limited settings.
Keyword : Complete rectal prolapse, Laparoscopic rectopexy, Rectum