Diagnostics
Proctological examination: what to expect
- Section
- Diagnostics
- Specialist
- Op. Dr. Dilara Hasanova
- Clinic
- Modern Hospital, Baku
How is a proctological examination performed?
Short answer
A proctological examination is a doctor's check of the anus and rectum. The doctor first asks about the symptoms in detail, then inspects the area around the anus, performs a digital rectal examination and, when needed, looks inside with an anoscope, rectoscope or video proctoscope. The examination is short and is done with a special numbing gel.
Stages of the examination
- Conversation: complaints, how long they have lasted, bowel habits, medications taken, past illnesses and operations, family history.
- Inspection: the patient usually lies on one side with the knees drawn up toward the abdomen. The doctor looks at the area around the anus.
- Digital rectal examination: the anal canal and the lower part of the rectum are checked with a gloved finger lubricated with gel.
- Instrument examination: anoscopy, rectoscopy or video proctoscopy.
- Explanation of the findings and treatment plan. The doctor records the result of the examination on a written examination sheet and explains it to the patient.
The doctor's practice
Examinations and treatments Dr. Hasanova performs herself
- Since 2012, Dr. Hasanova has filled out, for every patient, a special examination sheet that she drew up herself. The exact location of the problem is recorded, which helps in planning further treatment and follow-up visits.
- The examination is performed with a special gel containing lidocaine.
- Metal rectoscopes are sterilized after each use, and the instruments are used individually for each patient.
- During video proctoscopy, the image on the monitor is also shown to the patient.
Preparing for the examination
- A proctological examination usually does not require special preparation. Sometimes a small cleansing enema may be recommended before the examination. The doctor or the clinic will let you know about this in advance.
- Bring with you a list of the medications you take (especially blood thinners) and the results of previous tests and examinations.
- For a colonoscopy, however, special bowel cleansing is needed. Read more: Colonoscopy
Frequently asked questions
Is a proctological examination painful?
In most cases the examination causes only mild discomfort. A numbing gel is used, and the doctor explains every step in advance. In painful conditions such as an acute anal fissure or an abscess, the doctor limits the extent of the examination according to the patient's condition.
I feel embarrassed about the examination. What should I do?
This is a very natural feeling, and a proctologist understands it well. The examination is carried out in a confidential setting and takes a short time. Keep in mind that an examination postponed out of embarrassment can cause the disease to get worse. In Dr. Hasanova's words: “It's not shameful — it's health!”
How long does the examination take?
The inspection and the instrument examination themselves usually take a few minutes. Including the conversation, explanations and discussion of the treatment plan, the visit can take longer.