Difficulty passing stools despite repeated straining can significantly affect daily life and overall well-being. One of the common causes of this problem is Obstructed Defecation Syndrome (ODS), often associated with internal rectal prolapse (rectal intussusception) or a rectocele. Stapled Trans-Anal Rectal Resection (STARR) in Vasant Kunj is an advanced minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to correct these structural abnormalities and restore normal bowel function. Dr. Sanjay Verma specializes in advanced laparoscopic and colorectal surgery, offering personalized treatment using modern surgical techniques for patients with chronic constipation and obstructed defecation.

The STARR procedure is performed through the anal canal without external abdominal incisions, allowing patients to experience less postoperative pain, faster recovery, and improved quality of life.

What Is Stapled Trans-Anal Rectal Resection (STARR)?

Stapled Trans-Anal Rectal Resection (STARR) is a specialized surgical procedure performed to treat Obstructed Defecation Syndrome (ODS) caused by internal rectal prolapse or rectocele. During the procedure, a circular stapling device is used to remove excess rectal tissue through the anus, restoring the normal anatomy of the rectum and improving bowel emptying.

Unlike conventional surgery, STARR is performed entirely through the anal canal, avoiding abdominal incisions and reducing recovery time.

Who May Need STARR Surgery?

Dr. Sanjay Verma may recommend STARR for patients with:

• Obstructed Defecation Syndrome (ODS)
• Internal rectal prolapse (Rectal Intussusception)
• Rectocele
• Chronic constipation caused by structural rectal abnormalities
• Excessive straining during bowel movements
• Incomplete bowel emptying
• Dependence on laxatives or enemas
• Failure of conservative treatment
• Persistent symptoms affecting quality of life

A detailed evaluation is essential to confirm whether STARR is the appropriate treatment option.

Symptoms of Obstructed Defecation Syndrome

Patients may experience:

• Difficulty passing stools
• Excessive straining during bowel movements
• Feeling of incomplete bowel emptying
• Need to use fingers to assist stool passage
• Chronic constipation
• Frequent urge to pass stools
• Rectal discomfort
• Pelvic pressure
• Mucus discharge
• Reduced quality of life

These symptoms should be evaluated by a colorectal specialist.

Causes of Obstructed Defecation Syndrome

Common causes include:

• Internal rectal prolapse
• Rectocele
• Weak pelvic floor muscles
• Childbirth-related pelvic floor injury
• Chronic constipation
• Repeated straining
• Aging
• Connective tissue disorders
• Previous pelvic surgery

Identifying the underlying cause helps determine the most effective treatment.

Benefits of Stapled Trans-Anal Rectal Resection

The STARR procedure offers several advantages:

• No abdominal incisions
• Minimally invasive technique
• Less postoperative pain
• Shorter hospital stay
• Faster recovery
• Improved bowel emptying
• Reduced constipation symptoms
• Minimal scarring
• Early return to daily activities
• Improved quality of life

How Is STARR Surgery Performed?

The procedure is performed under general or regional anesthesia.

Step 1: Comprehensive Evaluation

Before surgery, patients undergo:

• Medical history and physical examination
• Digital rectal examination
• Colonoscopy when indicated
• Defecography
• MRI pelvis in selected cases
• Anal manometry
• Blood investigations
• Cardiac and anesthesia fitness assessment

Step 2: Surgical Procedure

A specially designed circular stapling device is inserted through the anal canal. The surgeon removes the redundant rectal tissue responsible for the prolapse or rectocele while simultaneously stapling the healthy tissue together.

This restores the normal shape of the rectum and improves stool passage without external incisions.

Step 3: Completion of Surgery

The surgical area is examined for bleeding and proper stapling before completing the procedure.

Step 4: Recovery

Patients receive pain management, bowel care instructions, dietary advice, and follow-up appointments to ensure smooth healing.

Recovery After STARR Surgery

Recovery is generally quick due to the minimally invasive nature of the procedure.

Recovery usually includes:

• Hospital stay of 1–2 days
• Early walking after surgery
• Pain management
• Soft diet initially
• Stool softeners if required
• Adequate hydration
• Follow-up visits to monitor healing

Most patients return to light daily activities within 1–2 weeks, while complete recovery generally takes 3–4 weeks.

Lifestyle and Postoperative Care

To maintain good bowel function after surgery, patients are encouraged to:

• Eat a high-fiber diet
• Drink plenty of water
• Avoid constipation
• Prevent excessive straining during bowel movements
• Exercise regularly
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Follow prescribed medications
• Attend regular follow-up appointments

These measures help improve long-term surgical outcomes and reduce the risk of recurrence.

Why Choose Dr. Sanjay Verma for Stapled Trans-Anal Rectal Resection in Vasant Kunj?

Dr. Sanjay Verma provides advanced colorectal surgical care using the latest minimally invasive techniques for treating obstructed defecation and rectal prolapse. Every patient receives a personalized treatment plan designed to restore normal bowel function and improve quality of life.

Why choose Dr. Sanjay Verma?

• Expertise in advanced colorectal surgery
• Specialized treatment for Obstructed Defecation Syndrome
• Extensive experience in STARR procedures
• Comprehensive diagnostic evaluation
• Personalized treatment planning
• Modern minimally invasive surgical techniques
• Dedicated postoperative care
• Compassionate, patient-focused approach

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the STARR procedure?

STARR (Stapled Trans-Anal Rectal Resection) is a minimally invasive surgery performed through the anal canal to treat obstructed defecation caused by internal rectal prolapse or rectocele.

2. Who is a suitable candidate for STARR surgery?

Patients with Obstructed Defecation Syndrome caused by structural abnormalities such as internal rectal prolapse or rectocele may benefit from STARR after a detailed evaluation.

3. Does STARR surgery require abdominal incisions?

No. The procedure is performed entirely through the anal canal, so no external abdominal cuts are required.

4. How long does the surgery take?

The procedure generally takes 30–60 minutes, depending on the complexity of the condition.

5. How long is the hospital stay?

Most patients stay in the hospital for 1–2 days after surgery.

6. Is the STARR procedure painful?

Most patients experience mild to moderate discomfort that can be effectively managed with prescribed pain medications.

7. How long does recovery take?

Most patients return to light daily activities within 1–2 weeks, while complete recovery usually occurs within 3–4 weeks.

8. Can constipation return after STARR surgery?

Many patients experience significant improvement, but maintaining healthy bowel habits, a high-fiber diet, and adequate hydration helps reduce the risk of recurrence.

9. Are there any dietary restrictions after surgery?

Initially, a soft diet is recommended. Over time, patients are encouraged to follow a high-fiber diet and drink plenty of fluids to support healthy bowel movements.

10. How can I book a consultation?

You can schedule an appointment with Dr. Sanjay Verma in Vasant Kunj for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan for obstructed defecation syndrome and rectal prolapse.