Rectoscopy and anoscopy in Sumy

Endoscopic examination methods are widely used in the diagnostics of gastrointestinal diseases. Endoscopy is a method of visualizing the internal structure of the intestine using a flexible probe with an optical camera. As a result of endoscopy, images of the mucous membrane of different parts of the digestive tract are displayed on the computer screen.

The diagnostics and treatment of diseases of the lower parts of the large intestine is carried out by a proctologist. The examination by a proctologist includes a digital examination of the rectum and endoscopic methods. For examination of the lower parts of the gastrointestinal tract in proctology, rectoscopy and anoscopy are used, when an endoscopic probe is inserted into the body through anus.

What rectoscopy is?

Rectoscopy is an endoscopic examination of the rectum. During rectoscopy, the intestinal mucosa, the presence of inflammation, neoplasms, hemorrhoids are assessed. The difference between rectoscopy and colonoscopy (an endoscopic method for examining the large intestine in gastroenterology) is that during rectoscopy only the rectum is examined, while colonoscopy is the examination of all parts of the large intestine.

How to get prepared for rectoscopy?

Preparation for rectoscopy includes:

• diet before rectoscopy (the day before the examination, it is necessary to exclude the use of alcohol, fermented milk products, carbonated drinks, on the day of the examination, do not eat at least 3 hours before the procedure);
• cleansing enema in the evening before the scheduled day of the procedure and again immediately before rectoscopy.

Who needs rectoscopy?

Rectoscopy is performed as prescribed by proctologist. It is necessary to be examined by proctologist when the following symptoms appear:

• pain in the anus at rest or during bowel defecation (bowel movement);
• appearance of blood in the stool;
• bowel movement process disorder;
• bleeding from rectum.

Rectoscopy is performed while lying on the side. To relieve discomfort during the procedure, anesthesia and sedation are used. Rectoscopy can be performed under short-term anesthesia. If there is an indication, rectoscopy can be performed on the child.

What diseases can be diagnosed using rectoscopy at “ON Clinic Sumy”?

Rectoscopy is a diagnostic method that allows determining the initial stages of rectal diseases. Rectoscopy allows diagnosing the following diseases:

• hemorrhoids and its complications (bleeding, prolapse of hemorrhoids, necrosis of hemorrhoids);
•  inflammatory diseases of rectum (paraproctitis);
•  neoplasms of rectum;
• trauma in rectal area;
• foreign bodies in rectum.

How often should rectoscopy be done?

After the age of 40, it is recommended to undergo annual rectoscopy for the early detection of oncological diseases. Rectoscopy allows detecting tumors in the early stages and taking a tissue sample for a biopsy immediately.

What is the difference between rectoscopy and anoscopy?

Anoscopy is an endoscopic examination of the anus, anal sphincter, and lower rectum. Rectoscopy differs from anoscopy in the depth of examination. Rectoscopy involves the introduction of the instrument (sigmoidoscope) 20 cm and examination of the upper half of rectum. Anoscopy is performed using an anoscope inserted to a depth of 10 cm.

How to get prepared for anoscopy?

When visiting a proctologist, you should ask the doctor in advance about how to get properly prepared for anoscopy. The rules for preparing for anoscopy are the same as before the rectoscopy (include a special diet and a cleansing enema). Rectoscopy and anoscopy, if necessary, can be performed simultaneously within the same examination.

Contraindications to anoscopy and rectoscopy procedures

Rectoscopy and anoscopy have some limitations. Endoscopic examinations through the anus are contraindicated in the following cases:

• massive bleeding from rectum;
• exacerbations of inflammatory diseases of rectum;
• congenital narrowing of anal canal, in which the introduction of the instrument into rectum is impossible.

If symptoms of diseases of the rectum and anal sphincter appear, do not postpone a visit to a proctologist. You can make an appointment with a proctologist in Sumy either by filling out an appointment form on the website, or by calling the phone number listed on the website. You can also find out the cost of rectoscopy and anoscopy in Sumy by calling the hotline.