Between January 1999 and December 2003 , 58 patients ( 55 females ; mean age , 70.9 + / - 11.3 years ) with full-thickness rectal prolapse were evaluated with continence score , colonoscopy , anorectal manometry , anal electromyography , and sacral reflex latency ; 40 of them were selected and randomly assigned to two groups : 20 patients ( Group 1 ; 19 females , 73.4 + / - 10.4 years ) were submitted to a conventional operation with monopolar electrocautery and handsewn anastomosis , and 20 ( Group 2 ; 18 females , 71.5 + / - 12.2 years ) using harmonic scalpel and circular stapler .
