Rectal Prolapse Treatment in Mumbai – Dr. Husain Gheewala

About Dr. Husain Gheewala

Dr. Husain Gheewala is a specialist colorectal surgeon in Mumbai with dedicated expertise in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of rectal prolapse. Trained in both laparoscopic and robotic rectopexy techniques during his fellowship at York NHS Hospital (UK), Dr. Gheewala offers minimally invasive surgical solutions that correct prolapse, restore bowel function, and significantly improve quality of life.
Rectal prolapse — where the rectum slips out of its normal position and protrudes through the anus — can be a deeply uncomfortable and distressing condition. Many patients feel embarrassed to seek help, but early treatment is essential to prevent worsening of symptoms and permanent damage to the anal sphincter muscles.

What Is Rectal Prolapse?

Rectal prolapse is a condition in which the rectum — the last portion of the large intestine — loses its normal attachments inside the pelvis and telescopes out through the anal opening. It can occur in three forms:

  • Full-Thickness (External) Rectal Prolapse: The entire wall of the rectum protrudes through the anus. This is the most visible and advanced form, often requiring surgical repair.
  • Mucosal Prolapse: Only the inner lining (mucosa) of the rectum protrudes. This can sometimes be confused with large prolapsing haemorrhoids.
  • Internal Rectal Prolapse (Intussusception): The rectum folds in on itself but does not protrude through the anus. Causes symptoms of incomplete evacuation, straining, and the sensation of a blockage during bowel movements.

Symptoms of Rectal Prolapse

  • A visible mass or lump protruding from the anus — especially during straining, standing, or coughing
  • Feeling of a lump that needs to be pushed back manually
  • Mucus or blood discharge from the rectum
  • Difficulty controlling bowel movements (faecal incontinence)
  • Chronic constipation or sensation of incomplete evacuation
  • Discomfort, heaviness, or dragging sensation in the pelvis

Causes and Risk Factors

  • Chronic constipation and straining over many years
  • Weakening of pelvic floor muscles with age
  • Pregnancy and childbirth (especially difficult vaginal deliveries)
  • Previous pelvic or abdominal surgery
  • Neurological conditions affecting the pelvic nerves
  • Connective tissue disorders

Rectal Prolapse Treatment in Mumbai

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT

Treatment Options for Rectal Prolapse

Dr. Gheewala offers both conservative and surgical treatment approaches, selecting the optimal strategy based on prolapse type, severity, patient age, and overall health:

Conservative Management

For early-stage or mild prolapse, conservative measures may help control symptoms: dietary modification with increased fibre, pelvic floor physiotherapy and biofeedback, stool softeners to avoid straining, and lifestyle modifications. However, most established prolapses require surgical correction for definitive treatment.

Laparoscopic Ventral Mesh Rectopexy

This is Dr. Gheewala’s preferred approach for most patients with full-thickness rectal prolapse. The procedure is performed through small keyhole incisions in the abdomen. The rectum is lifted back into its correct anatomical position and secured to the sacrum (tailbone) using a synthetic or biological mesh placed on the front (ventral) surface of the rectum. This modern approach avoids nerve damage at the back of the rectum and produces excellent long-term results with low recurrence rates. Hospital stay is typically 2-3 days with return to normal activities within 2-3 weeks.

Robotic Ventral Mesh Rectopexy

For selected patients, Dr. Gheewala performs rectopexy using the robotic surgical system. The robotic platform provides enhanced 3D visualization and greater instrument dexterity in the narrow pelvic space, potentially improving precision in mesh placement and nerve preservation. Dr. Gheewala received his robotic surgery certification from Severance Yonsei Hospital, Seoul, South Korea.

Perineal Procedures (Delorme / Altemeier)

For elderly patients or those who are not suitable for abdominal surgery due to significant medical conditions, perineal procedures offer an alternative. The Delorme procedure involves removing the prolapsed rectal mucosa through the anus. The Altemeier procedure (perineal rectosigmoidectomy) removes the prolapsed segment entirely through the perineum. These can be performed under spinal or regional anaesthesia.

Why Choose Dr. Husain Gheewala?

01
UK Fellowship in Pelvic Floor Surgery:
Trained specifically in laparoscopic and robotic rectopexy during his colorectal fellowship at York NHS Hospital, UK — one of the leading centres for pelvic floor surgery.
02
Robotic Surgery Certified:
Certified from Severance Yonsei Hospital, Seoul — enabling robotic-assisted rectopexy for enhanced precision in the narrow pelvic space.
03
Comprehensive Pelvic Floor Expertise:
Manages the full spectrum of pelvic floor conditions including rectal prolapse, faecal incontinence, and obstructed defecation — not just prolapse in isolation.
04
Patient-Centred Approach:
Takes time to explain the condition, set realistic expectations, and involve patients in treatment decisions. Known for his approachable and compassionate manner.

Rectal Prolapse Treatment in Mumbai

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT

FAQs

Early-stage internal prolapse or mucosal prolapse may respond to conservative measures including dietary changes and pelvic floor exercises. However, full-thickness external rectal prolapse almost always requires surgical correction for lasting relief.

If your specialist has confirmed it is safe, you can gently push a prolapse back into place using a clean, lubricated finger. However, this is only a temporary measure — it does not treat the underlying problem. Surgical repair is needed for definitive correction.

Laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy is currently considered the gold standard for most patients. It has low recurrence rates, avoids nerve damage, and preserves bowel function. Dr. Gheewala will recommend the most appropriate procedure based on your individual assessment

Most patients go home within 2-3 days after laparoscopic rectopexy. Return to light activities within 1-2 weeks. Full recovery in 4-6 weeks. Perineal procedures may allow even faster initial recovery.

Laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy is specifically designed to preserve and often improve bowel control. Many patients with pre-existing incontinence notice improvement after surgical prolapse correction.

No. While both can cause tissue to protrude from the anus, rectal prolapse involves the full rectal wall, whereas haemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels. The conditions require different treatments. A specialist can accurately distinguish between them.

Untreated prolapse worsens over time. The sphincter muscles become progressively stretched and damaged, leading to permanent faecal incontinence. The prolapsed tissue can also become ulcerated and bleed. Early surgical correction prevents these complications.

Costs vary by technique and hospital, typically ranging from INR 1,00,000 to INR 2,50,000 for laparoscopic rectopexy. Insurance coverage is usually available. Contact our clinic for a detailed estimate.

Book Your Rectal Prolapse Consultation

If you are experiencing symptoms of rectal prolapse, do not delay seeking specialist care. Consult Dr. Husain Gheewala — one of the few colorectal surgeons in Mumbai with dedicated UK fellowship training in laparoscopic and robotic pelvic floor surgery. Early treatment means simpler surgery and better outcomes.