Surgical repair of anterior rectocele in women. The perineovaginal approach

Rectoceles are best repaired via a perineal approach. The transperineovaginal approach provides access to the outer side of the rectocele: the rectal hernia is repaired with two or three purse-string sutures and suture of the rectal fascia, Levatorplasty, performed without narrowing of the vagina, reinforces the repair and strengthens the lax pelvic floor. Unilateral sacro-spinofixation of the vagina is a useful adjunct to restore normal anatomy. Rectocele repair via a perineovaginal approach has a low morbidity rate and achieves good functional results. Concomitant sphincteroplasty may be performed in the case of symptomatic rupture of the anal sphincter, treating as well urinary incontinence or prolapse of the uterus. Surgery is indicated in symptomatic rectocele when retraining the pelvic floor by biofeedback and medical therapy have failed to relieve symptoms. There are no clear predictive factors of outcome and the patient must be informed about the risk of persisting symptoms or failure. (C) 2000 Editions scientifiques et medicales Elsevier SAS.