If you are struggling with symptoms of discomfort, pain or bleeding in the bottom area, then you may suspect haemorrhoids or perhaps a fissure. You may have concerns that it’s something more serious, such as a form of cancer.
It’s very hard to know what’s going on, so the first step is to get a proper consultation and diagnosis with a colorectal consultant. This is a highly qualified medical professional who specialises in the area.
A protoscopy is an internal examination of the anus and rectum. This is carried out using a special instrument called a protoscope.
#1 Why is a proctoscopy done?
A protoscopy examination is enables our specialist, Mr Alex Von Roon, to check for any abnormalities inside the anus and rectum. Issues, including haemorrhoids, fissures and skin tags can be removed or corrected with minimal discomfort using local anaesthetic. However, it is vital to fully assess the problem first, in order to ensure that the correct treatment is being carried out.
During this procedure, you will be asked some general questions by one of our nurses about your symptoms before being taken into an examining room, where you will change into either shorts or loose-fitting trousers, allowing easy access to the affected area. Next, the nurse will ask if it feels okay for them to prepare you, which means cleanse around your bottom and gently insert the lubricated tube attached to the endoscopy machine, which gives us a clear view of what’s going on inside.
The entire consultation will be explained to you in detail by Mr Alex Von Roon, and he will answer any questions that you may have. In addition, you can be assured that our team at the haemorrhoid clinic provides a professional and reassuring service at all times.
If treatment is required, this will be booked for a separate date, and you will be given full instructions on what to do both before and after your procedure. Most treatments are carried out as day cases with no need for an overnight stay in hospital.
#2 How to prepare for a proctoscopy
You’ll be advised whether you need to stop eating before your appointment. In addition, it is important to drink plenty of fluids on the day and to use the toilet as often as possible so that your bowels are empty when you arrive. This will help reduce any discomfort or pain that you may experience during the examination.
If you are taking medication, please speak to our team at least 24 hours before your appointment so that we can ensure there are no adverse interactions with any of the drugs you are taking.
If you have a history of heart problems, epilepsy or diabetes, please let us know when making your appointment as additional preparations may be necessary. Please bring all relevant medical information with you to your appointment so that we can have a full picture of your health. This will help us to provide the best possible care for you.
#3 What happens during a proctoscopy?
You will be asked to lie on your left-hand side with the affected area exposed during your examination. A proctoscope attached to a camera is then inserted into the anus, and around four centimetres of the bowel lining are examined for signs of disease. If treatment is required, this can be discussed and scheduled to take place at a later date, depending on what’s found during that initial consultation.
We hope this article has been helpful and provides some clarity on what to expect when visiting our clinic for the first time. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch. We look forward to welcoming you soon.
Medications that may be prescribed for haemorrhoids or anal fissures include stool softeners, topical anaesthetics (to numb the area), and muscle relaxants. In some cases, surgery may also be necessary in order to correct the problem.
If you are experiencing pain and discomfort from anal fissures or haemorrhoids, it is essential to seek medical help as soon as possible. With the right treatment, most people can make a full recovery and enjoy relief from their symptoms. However, if left untreated, these conditions tend to get worse and may lead to further complications. So please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us if you have any questions or concerns about this condition.