K62.3 Rectal prolapse

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- Rectal Prolapse
- Medical term: Prolapse of the rectum

#### Summary
Rectal prolapse occurs when the rectum, the final section of the large intestine, slips or falls out of its normal position and protrudes through the anus. This condition can be uncomfortable and is more common in the elderly, but it can affect individuals of all ages.

#### Causes
Rectal prolapse can be caused by a variety of factors including chronic constipation or diarrhea, straining during bowel movements, weakened pelvic floor muscles due to aging, childbirth, or surgery, and certain neurological or systemic disorders.

#### Risk Factors
- Advanced age
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea
- Long-term straining during bowel movements
- Previous pelvic or abdominal surgery
- Neurological disorders affecting the pelvic nerves
- Female gender, especially following childbirth

#### Symptoms
- A visible bulge of tissue protruding from the anus
- Incomplete bowel movements
- Rectal bleeding or mucus discharge
- Fecal incontinence
- Discomfort or pain in the rectal area

#### Diagnosis
Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, where a doctor may ask the patient to strain as if having a bowel movement to reproduce the prolapse. Additional tests such as colonoscopy, anorectal manometry, or defecography may be used to assess the extent of the prolapse and associated bowel function.

#### Treatment Options
- **Conservative Management**: Includes increasing dietary fiber, stool softeners, and exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles.
- **Surgical Repair**: Surgical options such as rectopexy or perineal procedures are used to correct the prolapse, and the choice of surgery may depend on the patient’s health and specific circumstances.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
With appropriate treatment, the prognosis for rectal prolapse is generally good. Surgical intervention is often effective, although recurrent prolapse can occur. Regular follow-ups are critical to monitor for recurrence and manage any ongoing or related symptoms.

#### Complications
- Persistent discomfort and bleeding
- Ulceration of the protruding tissue
- Loss of control over bowel movements
- Strangulation of the prolapsed rectum, which can cut off blood supply and necessitate urgent medical attention

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- High-fiber diet and adequate hydration to prevent constipation
- Regular exercise to strengthen the pelvic floor
- Avoidance of straining during bowel movements

#### When to Seek Professional Help
Seek immediate medical attention if there is severe pain, inability to manually reduce the prolapse, significant bleeding, or signs of bowel blockage. Regular consultation for continual issues like frequent prolapse, control issues, or bleeding is also recommended.

#### Additional Resources
- American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons: [www.fascrs.org](https://www.fascrs.org)
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK): [www.niddk.nih.gov](https://www.niddk.nih.gov)

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure accurate coding by confirming diagnosis details specific to rectal prolapse (K62.3).
- Be cautious not to confuse with related conditions like hemorrhoids or intussusception in documentation.

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