Outcome of laparoscopic rectopexy for complete rectal prolapse in patients older than 70 years versus younger patients

Purpose. To evaluate the outcome of laparoscopic rectopexy for complete rectal prolapse in patients above 70 years of age, compared with that in younger patients. Methods. Between October 1997 and September 2001, 14 consecutive patients with complete rectal prolapse underwent laparoscopic rectopexy. Nine patients were aged 70 years or older, and five were aged under 70 years. All of the patients were ambulant and well enough to tolerate surgery under general anesthesia. Each patient was monitored pre- and postoperatively, for fecal incontinence, constipation, recurrent prolapse, morbidity, and mortality. Results. The median follow-up period was 34.5 (range 5-54) months. No significant differences were noted in the hospitalization, incidence of complications, recurrence rate, and functional outcome. Conclusion. The outcome of laparoscopic rectopexy in elderly patients is similar to that in younger patients. Therefore, advanced age alone should not be a contraindication to laparoscopic rectopexy.