Proctological examinations

Examinations

What does a proctoscopy examination entail?

A proctoscopy is a safe examination, which is well tolerated. The patient lies on his/her left side on the examination table. The dermatologist- proctologist will perform a visual and digital examination of the anus. The proctologist will then insert the proctoscope. This may cause some internal pressure. In rare cases, it may cause a small tear in the skin of the anus.

Preparation

Proctoscopy requires little preparation. You will be asked to administer an enema to yourself the night before the day of the examination and two hours before the examination. This will stimulate the urge to defecate. Your bowels need to be empty for the examination.

Potential complications after examination or treatment

Blood loss after treatment of haemorrhoids or fistulas, or after biopsies, is a common complication, but is rarely serious and does usually not persist. By using the latest methods, we try to limit pain to a minimum. The chance that symptoms will recur after treatment is low if your stool is normal and does not require straining.

Medicines

If you are taking anticoagulants (blood thinners), please inform the physician. The physician will ask you about this during the first consultation. You should also inform the physician if you have man-made materials in your body, such as a pacemaker or implantable defibrillator.

Are any additional examinations required?

If the physician finds any abnormalities during the proctoscopy, he will take a small tissue sample (biopsy) for further examination. A biopsy is not painful, but often causes some bleeding. The results of the examination of the biopsy material will be known after about 1-2 weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions about Proctological Examinations

What examinations can be performed during my appointment?

During your consultation, the doctor may perform different proctological examinations to determine the cause of your symptoms. These may include a proctoscopy (an examination of the lower part of the rectum), a biopsy, or allergy testing in cases of persistent anal itching. The type of examination depends on your symptoms and will be discussed with you beforehand.

What is a proctoscopy?

A proctoscopy is a brief internal examination in which the doctor uses a thin instrument to examine the last part of the rectum. This examination is commonly performed for complaints such as haemorrhoids, rectal bleeding, anal itching, or pain. The procedure usually takes only a few minutes.

When is a biopsy taken?

If the doctor notices an abnormality during the examination, a small tissue sample may be taken for further analysis. This is called an anal or rectal biopsy. The tissue is examined in a laboratory, and results are usually available within one to two weeks.

Is a proctological examination safe?

Yes, examinations such as a proctoscopy or taking a biopsy are generally safe and are performed with care. After certain procedures, you may experience mild discomfort or slight bleeding. Serious complications are rare. The doctor will explain what to expect and when you should contact the clinic.

Do I need to inform the doctor about medication or medical devices?

Yes, it is important to inform the doctor if you use blood thinners, are pregnant, or have a pacemaker or other implanted medical device. This may influence the examination or any possible treatment.