Diagnostics
Video proctoscopy
- Section
- Diagnostics
- Specialist
- Op. Dr. Dilara Hasanova
- Clinic
- Modern Hospital, Baku
What is video proctoscopy?
Short answer
Video proctoscopy is an examination of the anal canal and the lower part of the rectum using a proctoscope equipped with a video camera. The image is magnified and shown on a monitor. The doctor sees the mucous membrane more clearly, and the patient can watch the image at the same time if they wish. The examination is short and usually requires no special preparation or anesthesia. It is sometimes also called “video rectoscopy.”
How does it differ from regular anoscopy?
In regular anoscopy, the doctor looks directly through the instrument into the anal canal. In video proctoscopy, the image is transmitted to a screen by a camera. This makes it possible to see small fissures, polyps, the internal opening of a fistula and inflammatory changes more clearly. The patient also sees with their own eyes what the doctor sees and understands the diagnosis better.
When is it recommended?
- Bleeding from the anus
- Pain or burning during bowel movements
- Swelling or a lump around the anus, a “foreign body” sensation
- Itching, wetness, mucus or pus discharge
- Suspected hemorrhoids, anal fissure, anal polyp, fistula or condylomas (warts)
- Follow-up visit after surgery
How is the examination performed?
The patient lies on one side on the examination table. A numbing gel is applied to the anal area, and the proctoscope with the camera is gently inserted into the anal canal. The doctor evaluates the image on the monitor. The examination is short: including explanations and preparation, it takes approximately 10–20 minutes.
Capabilities and limitations of video proctoscopy
Video proctoscopy shows the anal canal and the last part of the rectum (approximately the last 10–15 cm). Colonoscopy is needed to see the upper parts of the colon. These two examinations do not replace each other; they complement each other. Video proctoscopy and colonoscopy: what is the difference?
Visible area
- Video proctoscopy — anal canal and roughly the last 10–15 cm of the rectum
- Colonoscopy — entire colon and rectum
The doctor's practice
Examinations and treatments Dr. Hasanova performs herself
- Dr. Hasanova began introducing the Karl Storz video proctoscopy system in Modern Hospital's Coloproctology Department in 2016. Since 2025 she has been performing video proctoscopy herself again.
- She also shows the image to the patient during the examination.
Frequently asked questions
Is video proctoscopy painful?
The examination is performed with a numbing gel, and most patients feel only mild discomfort. In very painful conditions such as an acute anal fissure, the doctor performs the examination carefully or postpones it.
Is any preparation needed for video proctoscopy?
Special preparation is usually not required. Sometimes a small cleansing enema is recommended before the examination. Unlike colonoscopy, no diet or complete bowel cleansing is needed.
Does video proctoscopy replace colonoscopy?
No. Video proctoscopy shows only the anal canal and the last part of the rectum. Colonoscopy is needed to evaluate all parts of the colon, look for polyps and carry out screening.