Anal Sphincter Morphology and Function in External Rectal Prolapse
Research type
Research Study
Full title
An Exploratory Study to Investigate the Relationship Between the Morphology and the Physiological Function of the Anal Sphincter in Patients with External Rectal Prolapse Before and After Surgical Intervention
IRAS ID
350642
Contact name
Karen Telford
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 11 months, 30 days
Research summary
By carrying out this research, we aim to understand what happens to the morphology (thickness and shape) of the internal anal sphincter muscle in patients who have rectal prolapse, both before and after planned surgery to repair their prolapse. This will help us understand how prolapse affects the muscles of the back passage. The morphology of the sphincter muscle will be assessed using an ultrasound probe, placed inside the back passage.
We know that some patients with rectal prolapse experience problems with incontinence of stools before and/or after surgery, but the reason for this is not fully understood. Incontinence can have a negative impact on patients’ quality of life, and therefore improving our understanding of why this happens is important. We will therefore also measure the strength and function of the sphincter muscle with specialist tests (using thin tubes placed inside the back passage), and ask patients to complete questionnaires to assess for symptoms of ‘anorectal dysfunction’ (incontinence of stools or constipation) before and after surgery.
By investigating the relationship between the anal sphincter muscle morphology and the strength and function of the muscle, we will develop a better understanding of how important a role changes in the sphincter muscle play in the cause of incontinence in patients with prolapse, both before and after surgery for this condition.
The study will be conducted at Wythenshawe Hospital (Manchester Foundation Trust). We will be recruiting new participants for 2 years. Each participant will complete three questionnaires, answer some questions about the medical history and undergo three tests (one test of sphincter muscle morphology, and two tests of sphincter muscle function) on one occasion before their surgery, and on one occasion 6-12 months after surgery.
REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - South Yorkshire Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/YH/0103
Date of REC Opinion
7 Jul 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion