The book deals comprehensively with the various forms of prolapse, including external prolapse,
rectal intussusception and genital prolapse. Our understanding of the pathophysiology of rectal prolapse
has advanced in the last 10–20 years due to the application of more sophisticated methods of neurophysiological
assessment and of technical developments in imaging. The chapters on aetiology and
investigation set out in detail the present position regarding the value of these advancements in clinical
practice. The interface between rectal and genital prolapse is dealt with, as is the relationship of rectal
prolapse to other anorectal symptoms such as incontinence and evacuation difficulty. The various abdominal
and perineal procedures, including laparoscopic rectopexy, are described in separate chapters.
Besides the classic operations, new treatments such as the STARR and EXPRESS procedures are dealt
with, and their indications are considered in relation to the clinical presentation and the various other
options. There is discussion on the relative merits of abdominal and perineal surgical approaches. Function
following surgery receives considerable attention, and the difficult problems that may be posed by
recurrence after surgery are dealt with. Nonsurgical treatment and rehabilitation are also described.
There are chapters outlining best practice and a treatment algorithm that, being evidence based, set a
standard of management guiding the reader through the decision-making process.