What is perineal rectosigmoidectomy? what is a low anterior resection with rectoplexy? can either be done microscopicaly? should an 86 year old woman have this done? we don't want her to go through a major surgery and be in pain for long. her rectal prol

Both : Both these procedures are done for rectal prolapse. The perineal rectosigmoidectomy is done from below by making an incision and removing the rectum and the last part of the colon to prevent the rectum from prolapsing (also known as the altemeier procedure) the second procedure you mention is the low anterior resection with rectopexy is done through the abdomen and the surgeon removes a part of the colon and pulls the rectum up and sutures it to the inlet of the sacrum to prevent it from prolapsing back out. For an 86 year old unless she is in great medical condition the first procedure perineal rectosigmoidectomy would be a safer procedure as it is less invasive and offers a good outcome.