A proctoscopy is a medical procedure where a doctor examines the anal cavity, sigmoid colon, or rectum for disease or abnormalities. It is used to screen for colon cancer, monitor rectal polyps, and diagnose underlying problems causing diarrhea or constipation. Before the procedure, the colon must be emptied, and during the exam, a proctoscope is inserted into the anus to take tissue samples or remove rectal growths. The exam usually takes 15 minutes or less.
A proctoscopy is a medical procedure performed by a doctor to examine the inside of the anal cavity, sigmoid colon, or rectum for disease or abnormalities. During the exam, your doctor will insert an instrument called a proctoscope into your anus, allowing for inspection of the inside for polyps or hemorrhoids. The proctoscopy exam usually takes about 15 minutes or less.
The proctoscopy procedure is typically done to screen for colon cancer or to monitor the growth of rectal polyps. This exam can show underlying problems with the colon that can cause ongoing diarrhea or constipation. A doctor may order a proctoscopy to determine the cause of blood or pus in your bowel movements. Unexplained lower abdominal pain may indicate the need for a proctoscopy to screen for colon disease.
Before proctoscopy, the colon must be completely emptied of all fecal matter. Doctors may request a liquid diet for one day before the test or advise you to abstain from food for at least 12 hours before your appointment. An enema is usually given the night before the exam and again an hour before the proctoscopy begins. The fluid solution in the enema causes an increase in the peristaltic movements of the colon, resulting in rapid emptying of the contents. If allowed by the doctor, laxatives can be used as an alternative to the enema.
During the procedure, the patient will need to lie on their side on a table. A proctoscope will be lubricated and gently inserted into the anus. Your doctor may add short bursts of air through the proctoscope to the rectal cavity to help see the internal cavity. After that, the air will gradually dissipate or be eliminated as flatulence. Some patients will experience mild cramping and feel slight pressure from the scope used in the exam.
After the proctoscope is fully inserted, the doctor can take tissue samples or remove rectal growths found during the exam. Some proctoscopes have a hollowed out space designed for inserting a tube with an attached fiberoptic camera, which allows the doctor to take pictures for later examination. A relay lens can be attached to the proctoscope to allow the doctor to view the rectal cavity. Once the exam is complete, the proctoscope will be gently removed from the anus and any lubricant will be wiped from the area. Any tissue biopsy will be sent to a lab for further testing.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
