Did your doctor recommend a proctoscopy, and did you feel a bit nervous or uncomfortable? It is completely normal to feel that way. It is natural to feel embarrassed or anxious when a sensitive part of your body needs to be examined. However, there is truly no need to be scared or ashamed. In this article, Nirogi Lanka will walk you through exactly what a proctoscopy is, why it is done, and how the process works.
What exactly is a proctoscopy?
Simply put, a proctoscopy is an examination that allows your doctor to look inside your rectum and anus. The rectum is the final part of your digestive system where stool is stored before it leaves the body.
This procedure is performed by a specialized doctor, such as a colorectal surgeon or a gastroenterologist. The doctor uses a specialized tool called a proctoscope—a short, hollow tube made of plastic or metal. It features a light and a camera at one end. This tube is gently inserted into your rectum, allowing the doctor to clearly examine the inner lining for wounds, polyps, bleeding, or hemorrhoids. If anything abnormal is detected, the doctor can pass a small instrument through the tube to take a tiny tissue sample for a biopsy.
A proctoscopy is a type of endoscopy. Some people may also refer to it as a rigid sigmoidoscopy.
Why is a proctoscopy necessary?
This test helps your doctor diagnose various conditions affecting your rectal area. Here are the main reasons why this procedure is performed:
| Reason for the Test | Simple Explanation |
|---|---|
| Identifying rectal bleeding | To determine exactly why you have blood in your stool, whether it is due to hemorrhoids, a tear, or another condition. |
| Diagnosing rectal and anal diseases | To visually inspect and identify inflammation, pain, or sores in the area. |
| Investigating diarrhea or constipation | To check if the underlying cause of chronic digestive issues is located in the rectum. |
| Examining or removing polyps | To detect small growths and either remove them or monitor them before they become cancerous. |
| Screening for cancer | As a primary screening for colorectal cancer or to monitor for recurrence in patients who have been treated previously. |
How should you prepare?
For the test to be successful, a little preparation on your part is required.
Inform your doctor about your medications
Before the test, you must tell your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking, including:
- Prescription drugs
- Over-the-counter medications (medications)
- Vitamins and herbal supplements (herbal supplements)
If you take blood thinners, your doctor may ask you to stop taking them a few days before the procedure. Please follow your doctor's instructions precisely.
Cleansing the rectum is key!
The most important part of the preparation is ensuring the rectum is thoroughly cleaned. If stool is present, the doctor cannot clearly see the inner walls. Your doctor will recommend the best method for you, which is usually an enema or a mild laxative.
An enema involves administering a liquid into the rectum, holding it for a short time, and then passing it out along with the stool. Your doctor or nurse will explain how to do this correctly.
Because a proctoscopy only examines the lower part of the rectum, it does not require the extensive preparation needed for a full colonoscopy.
What happens during the procedure?
The test can be performed at a hospital or an outpatient clinic. You will be asked to remove your lower clothing and put on a gown. You will then be asked to lie on your left side on an exam table with your knees bent.
1. Initial exam: The doctor will first perform a manual exam of the rectal area using a gloved, lubricated finger to check for obstructions or tender spots.
2. Inserting the device: The lubricated proctoscope is then gently inserted. You may feel the urge to have a bowel movement; this is perfectly normal, so please do not be alarmed.
3. Introducing air: Since the rectal walls naturally stick together, the doctor will introduce a small amount of air through the tube to inflate them for a clear view. This may cause a feeling of fullness or mild discomfort, but the procedure is generally not painful.
4. Pain relief: Anesthesia is usually not required. However, if you feel pain or are feeling very anxious, please let your doctor know.
You may hear or feel the air escaping during the procedure. This is completely normal and expected. There is absolutely no reason to feel embarrassed; medical professionals are very accustomed to this.
Once the examination is complete, the doctor will gently remove the tube. The entire procedure usually takes only 5 to 15 minutes.
What happens after the procedure?
Most individuals are able to resume their normal daily activities immediately after the procedure. Because air is introduced during the exam, you may experience some mild bloating or flatulence. Walking around will help alleviate this discomfort as the gas passes.
If a tissue sample was taken for a biopsy, you might notice a small amount of blood during your first bowel movement, which is completely normal.
Risks of this exam and how it compares to others
A proctoscopy is considered a very low-risk procedure. While rare, potential complications like minor scratches leading to slight bleeding or localized irritation can occur due to the insertion of the instrument.
Differences between Proctoscopy and other examinations
You may have heard of other diagnostic tests such as an Anoscopy or Colonoscopy. While similar, there are key differences in what each exam covers.
| Procedure | Area Examined | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| Anoscopy | Anus (Anal canal) | Uses a short scope to inspect only the very end of the anal canal. |
| Proctoscopy (Rigid Sigmoidoscopy) | Rectum | Uses a straight, 10-inch scope to provide a clear view of the entire rectum. |
| Flexible Sigmoidoscopy | Rectum and sigmoid colon | Uses a 27-inch flexible scope to examine further into the lower bowel. |
| Colonoscopy | Entire Colon | Uses a long, flexible scope to screen the entire length of the colon for polyps or disease. |
When to seek medical attention
If you experience any of the following symptoms after your procedure, contact your doctor immediately or visit the nearest Emergency Department (ED):
- A fever of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher.
- Significant rectal bleeding, or bleeding that continues for more than three days.
- Severe abdominal pain or significant, persistent abdominal swelling.
Take-Home Message
- A proctoscopy is a quick, low-risk examination of the rectum and anus provided by Nirogi Lanka.
- While it is normal to feel nervous or embarrassed, the procedure is generally not painful.
- Following your doctor’s instructions for bowel preparation is essential for accurate results.
- Feeling the urge to have a bowel movement or passing gas during the procedure is completely normal; please do not feel embarrassed, as our medical team encounters this every day.
- Should you develop a fever, heavy bleeding, or severe abdominal pain, seek medical care immediately.
