Proctological examination

A proctological examination is a specialist examination performed by an abdominal surgeon who diagnoses and treats diseases of the final section of the large intestine. During the examination, the patient’s medical history is taken, a physical examination is performed (including examination of the anus, anal canal, and lower part of the rectum), a diagnosis is made, and a treatment plan is established.

It is recommended when proctological symptoms are present, such as bleeding (occasional or daily), itching, burning, pain in the anal region, discomfort during bowel movements, and the presence of blood or mucus in the stool.

Although there is often a prejudice that this is a very uncomfortable or even painful examination, a proctological exam should not be like that if performed correctly. When the doctor handles the anal canal carefully – which is given special attention at the Poliklinika Sinteza – the examination can be completed without any discomfort.

What is anoscopy?

Anoscopy is a procedure performed as part of a proctological examination that involves the use of an anoscope – a tubular medical instrument inserted into the anus to examine the anal canal (a few centimeters deep).

It is done to evaluate anorectal symptoms such as burning, bleeding, pain, and itching, and typically lasts only a few minutes. The procedure is not painful, although in some cases, mild discomfort may be felt.

Who should undergo a proctological examination?

An examination is necessary when proctological symptoms are present, i.e., symptoms related to the anorectal area or in cases of increased risk of developing anorectal diseases.

A proctologist’s examination is advised if you have:

• Pain, itching, burning, or discomfort in the anal area (during or after bowel movements or unrelated to bowel movements)
• Difficulty with bowel movements or a feeling of incomplete evacuation
• Presence of blood or mucus in the stool
• Visible hemorrhoids
• Visible changes or sores around the anus (anal fistula or fissure)
• Changes in the color or texture of the stool

A preventive examination is recommended for people over 40 years old with a history of intestinal polyps or previous colorectal cancer, as well as for those with a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps and inflammatory bowel diseases. It is recommended that the examination be performed every 3 to 5 years, depending on age and medical history.

What is important to know before the proctological examination and anoscopy?

The examination is usually not painful, and most patients tolerate it well. However, if there is intense fear of discomfort, local anesthesia can be used.

Before any procedure at the Poliklinika Sinteza, the doctor will have a detailed conversation with you about your medical condition and the symptoms that brought you in.

It is advisable to bring any discharge summaries and test results from previous examinations.

Contrary to common belief, no special preparation or enema is required for the examination.

How is the proctological examination performed?

Taking a medical history: The proctological examination at Poliklinika Sinteza begins with a conversation in which you will receive all instructions about the course of the examination and how you can help ensure it is not uncomfortable. You will then lie on the examination table on your left side.

Physical examination: The first part of the exam involves inspection of the external part of the anal opening with the naked eye (examination of the skin around the anal opening and the coccyx).

After that, a digital rectal examination follows, during which the doctor, wearing gloves lubricated with Vaseline, uses the index finger to feel the entrance to the anal opening to assess its tone and detect any possible changes.

The examination may then continue with anoscopy, which is used to assess the condition of hemorrhoids or other disorders of the anal canal.

Diagnosis and treatment plan: Based on the examination, the doctor will explain the findings and create a treatment plan, which may include conservative methods or a recommendation for surgical intervention. The doctor may also refer you for additional diagnostic procedures if needed to establish a final diagnosis (e.g., colonoscopy, MRI, bowel transit study, or barium enema (irigography), etc.).

Precautions

There are no significant complications associated with the examination or the examination procedure itself.

Preparation for a proctological examination

The doctors at Poliklinika Sinteza approach each patient with care and aim to relax them during the pre-examination discussion to ensure they can follow the instructions effectively. Most patients experience no pain or significant discomfort.

Special preparation, aside from the usual hygiene of the anal area, is not necessary.

 

Price of the proctological examination

You can check the price of the inspection in the current price list.

For more information, contact us by phone at: +385 1 5005 970 or via email: info@sinteza.hr.

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