Rectal prolapse historical perspective

In medieval times, scientists suggested that rectal prolapse could be prevented by using a scar (through burning the anus) or by using a stick. In the 20th century, rectal prolapse was studied scientifically and Nowadays there are various surgical methods for rectal prolapse treatment.

• Historically, rectal prolapse was described on papyrus in 1500 BC.
• In 1912, Moschowitz described the anatomical basis for a rectal prolapse (the anterior rectovaginal pouch is abnormally deep). They suggested that in rectal prolpase anterior rectal wall is herniated to the defect of the pelvic fascia.
• In 1968, Broden and Snallmann suggested that rectal intussusception is the cause of rectal prolapse.
• In 1970, Theuerkauf et al. confirmed this theory that intussusception cause rectal prolapse by using radiographs.
• In 1977, they confirmed perineal nerve injury in patients with rectal prolapse by performed biopsies of the pelvic floor in patients undergoing posterior repair.^[1][2]

Hippocrates suggested a treatment for rectal prolapse; the patients could be treated by hanging them to a tree upside down, applying sodium hydroxide to the mucosa, and fixing for 3 days. In medieval times, scientists suggested that rectal prolapse could be prevented by using a scar (through burning the anus) or by using a stick. In the 20th century, rectal prolapse was studied scientifically and nowadays there are various surgical methods for rectal prolapse treatment.^[2]

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