A proctoscopy is a throw in ofendoscopyprocedure.
A tool called a proctoscope is gently inserted through the anus and into the rectum.
A proctoscopy typically is performed by a digestive disease specialist (agastroenterologist) on an outpatient basis.
Liudmila Chernetska / Getty Images
Liudmila Chernetska / Getty Images
Why Is Proctoscopy Done?
A proctoscopy can look at the inside of theanal sphincterand the rectum.
The rectum is the last part of the large intestine.
It is where stool is held before a bowel movement.
The anal sphincter is the opening through which stool leaves the body.
The anus and rectum can be affected by various diseases and conditions.
A proctoscopy looks at the rectum but not the other sections of the colon that are higher up.
Preparation may include cleaning out the rectum of any stool by using anenema.
An enema is done by introducing a liquid through the anus and into the rectum.
It is held there for a time before having a bowel movement.
What Happens During a Proctoscopy?
A proctoscopy may be performed in a doctors office, an outpatient endoscopy center, or a hospital.
Proctoscopy Procedure
A proctoscopy will be done in an exam room or an endoscopy suite.
After that, the proctoscope will be gently passed through the anus.
Air may be passed into the rectum to help better see the walls and any problems.
There may be some discomfort but this test usually does not cause pain.
Sedation usually is not needed.
The test should take only a few minutes.
Risks and Side Effects
There are few risks and side effects from a proctoscopy.
The test might be uncomfortable.
However, these are rare.
Recovery
Most people will be able to go back to their regular day after the test.
Some people might havebloatingor gas if air was put into the rectum.
These results will come back in a few days to a week.
If theres a need for a follow-up appointment or more testing, your healthcare provider will let you know.
How Is a Proctoscopy Different From Other Colon Cancer Screenings?
A proctoscopy may be used forcolorectal cancer screeningin certain situations.
However, it is not considered the gold standard for regular screening.
Proctoscopy vs. Colonoscopy
A proctoscopy is used to view the rectum.
The rectum is the last part of the colon.
Proctoscopy vs. Anoscopy
An anoscopy is similar to a proctoscopy.
For that reason, a proctoscopy can be used to see more of the rectum.
This means that more of the colon can be screened during a sigmoidoscopy than during a proctoscopy.
Summary
A proctoscopy is used to screen the rectum for any problems or abnormalities.
The procedure is quick, and it may only require the use of an enema to prepare.
It can be done on an outpatient basis.
A proctoscope may be used to check on the status of the rectum.
It could be used if a healthcare provider thinks that there is a problem in the rectum.
Having a proctoscopy should not be painful.
You may, however, feel discomfort while the proctoscope is in the rectum.
National Cancer Institute.Manipulative procedures.
2018;61:202-206. doi:10.1097/DCR.0000000000000906.
