Proctoscopy
Treatment Duration
15
Suggested Sessions
2 φορές / έτος
What is proctoscopy?
This is an examination with high diagnostic value, while the procedure, performed in the doctor's office, is safe, simple and short.
Proctoscopy provides information on many diseases in the area of the anus and rectum, contributing to early diagnosis and faster and more effective treatment.
It is performed with the help of a tool called a proctoscope. With the proctoscope the doctor examines the inside of the anus and the rectum. The rectum is the last part of the lower gastrointestinal tract up to the anus.
The proctoscopy examines a few centimeters of the mucosa of the rectum, the skin, the perianal area and gathers important information about diseases of the anus and rectum.
What can the proctoscopy detect?
- Anal warts (internal)
- Anal malformations
- Internal hemorrhoids
- Anal or rectal cancer
- Rectal polyps
- Anal fissure
- Inflammation of the anus
- Colitis
- Crohn's disease
- Circumferential fistulas
Symptoms for proctoscopy
- Detection of warts perianal
- Itching, pain, or bleeding from the anus
- Mass palpation
- Feeling of incomplete defecation
- Incontinence
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In the last 2 to 4 cm of the colon there are many diseases, which can be easily detected by proctoscopy.
Proctoscopy procedure
The examination can be performed in the doctor's office. It does not require anesthesia, nor sedatives or painkillers.
The patient lies in a fetal position, with the knees quite bent, and the doctor carefully inserts the proctoscope, a short, rigid thin tube that can bring light to one end.
This way the doctor is able to check the anal canal and a part of the rectum for any disease.
If necessary, the doctor can take samples for biopsies, through very small tools that are inserted through the proctoscope, while he can also proceed to specific therapeutic interventions, such as hemorrhoids, or cauterization of internal warts or malformations.
When the examination is complete the proctoscope comes out and the doctor is able to inform about the results, unless a biopsy has been taken, in which case the answers are ready in a few days. The duration of the test is about 15 minutes or less.
By talking to the patient throughout the procedure the doctor ensures the trust and cooperation that always helps both parties.
Preparation
Unlike other examinations, which are in a wider area, such as colonoscopy, proctoscopy does not require special preparation.
It is considered necessary to clean the rectum with enema, so that the images taken are clear. The enema takes place on the day of the examination at home about 1-2 hours before the scheduled examination.
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Frequently Asked Questions
I have scheduled a proctoscopy. Is it painful?
Proctoscopy is generally considered uncomfortable and not painful. What you may feel during the test is a slight discomfort. However if you feel pain you should report it to your doctor.
Do I need to notice anything after the proctoscopy?
No, you do not need to follow any instructions unless treatment has been given (eg cauterization). After completing the test you can return to your normal activities.
Can complications occur after proctoscopy?
Proctoscopy is generally considered a safe procedure. A small amount of bleeding, especially if biopsies have been taken is expected, however in any case the doctor should be informed.
Bibliography
- https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/hw2215
- https://www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk/content/uploads/2019/10/4Flexi-Sig-and-Procto-Final-July-2018.pdf
- https://www.cambridge.org/core/books/hospital-surgery/proctoscopy/96BCFCB1E7B7FA00C71BB3AE0535BDDA
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/10749-proctoscopy-rigid-sigmoidoscopy