STARR Procedure | Stapled Transanal Resection

STARR Procedure

Stapled Transanal Rectal Resection by Dr. Ashok Kumar

Call 05226664444

What is STARR Procedure?

Stapled transanal rectal resection removes redundant rectal tissue causing internal prolapse/intussusception. Minimally invasive transanal approach with low morbidity. Excellent for obstructed defecation syndrome.

Indications

  • Obstructed defecation syndrome
  • Internal prolapse
  • Intussusception
  • Rectocele
  • Failed conservative therapy

Surgical Technique

Transanal approach using circular stapler. Removal of redundant tissue. Stapling creates plication. Restores normal rectal anatomy. No abdominal incisions needed.

Recovery

Day procedure or 1-night stay. Return to activities 1-2 weeks. Full recovery 3-4 weeks. Patient satisfaction 70-80%. Most achieve improved evacuation and reduced straining.

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What is the STARR procedure?

STARR stands for stapled transanal rectal resection. It is an operation for obstructed defecation syndrome caused by a rectocele (a bulge of the rectal wall towards the vagina) and/or internal rectal prolapse (where the rectal wall folds into itself). The aim is to remove the excess, folded rectal wall so that stool can pass more easily.

Who may benefit

  • Patients with difficulty emptying the rectum, prolonged straining or needing to press on the perineum or vagina
  • Tests such as defecography showing a significant rectocele or internal prolapse
  • Symptoms that have not improved with diet changes, laxatives and biofeedback therapy

STARR is not suitable for everyone. Patients with pelvic floor dyssynergia, a weak anal sphincter or certain other conditions may need different treatment, which is why careful assessment is important.

How it is done

The operation is performed through the anus, so there are no cuts on the abdomen. Under spinal or general anaesthesia, the surgeon uses circular staplers to remove a band of excess rectal wall and join the edges in one step. The procedure usually takes about an hour.

Recovery

  • Hospital stay is usually one to three days
  • Some urgency and frequent bowel movements are common in the first weeks and usually settle
  • Keep stools soft and avoid straining
  • Light activities can resume within one to two weeks; avoid heavy lifting for about four weeks

Possible risks

Risks include bleeding, pain, urgency, infection and, rarely, narrowing of the rectum or a leak at the staple line. Your surgeon will explain the risks in detail before you decide.

Frequently asked questions

Is STARR a major operation?

It is done through the anus without abdominal incisions, but it is still a surgical procedure that needs anaesthesia and a short hospital stay.

Will my constipation be cured?

Many carefully selected patients notice clear improvement in emptying. Results are best when the symptoms are caused by the structural problem the operation corrects.

Are there alternatives?

Alternatives include biofeedback therapy, rectocele repair through the vagina and laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy. The best choice depends on your test results.

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Book a consultation: call 0522-666-4444 or use the request call back form on this page. In an emergency, come straight to the 24/7 emergency department at Charak Hospital, Hardoi Road, Dubagga, Lucknow.