What a proctology consultation involves
The visit begins with a conversation about your symptoms, bowel habit, diet and other conditions. The doctor then inspects the anal area and performs a digital examination (per rectum), which takes around ten to twenty seconds. Depending on the indications, this is supplemented by an anoscopy or videorectoscopy. Finally, the doctor discusses the diagnosis and treatment plan.
No special preparation is needed for a routine consultation; everyday hygiene is enough. The first visit is described step by step in the guide First visit to a proctologist.
Anoscopy
Anoscopy is an examination of the anal canal (the last 4–5 cm of the bowel) using a short speculum. It allows internal haemorrhoids, fissures, polyps and inflammation to be assessed. It takes about a minute, requires no preparation and is performed during the consultation when the doctor considers it necessary.
Videorectoscopy
Videorectoscopy is an examination of the rectum (about 15–20 cm of the bowel) with a rigid rectoscope fitted with a camera; the image is shown on a monitor and can be recorded. It is performed for bleeding, a change in bowel habit, or suspected polyps or inflammation of the rectum. The examination takes a few minutes and involves a feeling of pressure, usually without pain.
Videorectoscopy may require preparation in the form of an enema 1–2 hours before the examination; we let you know whether it is necessary when you book. Anoscopy and videorectoscopy are a single item in the price list: “Proctology consultation with videorectoscopy or anoscopy”. You do not need to know which examination you need — the doctor decides during the consultation by changing the tip of the instrument, and the price is the same. If a sample is taken during the examination, the histopathological examination is charged additionally.
Conservative treatment and procedures
Most proctological conditions are treated conservatively: with diet, topical medication and changes in habits. For an anal fissure that does not respond to treatment, botulinum toxin injection is available. On an outpatient basis, the doctor performs incision of perianal thrombosis, removal of skin lesions (moles, fibromas, warts) and other minor surgical procedures.
Current prices of consultations, videorectoscopy and procedures are listed in the price list.
When not to delay
Urgent medical assessment is needed for: heavy or recurrent rectal bleeding, severe pain in the anal area with fever, inability to pass stool with bloating and vomiting, and bleeding in a person over 50 or with a family history of bowel disease. Blood in the stool should always be discussed with a doctor, even if the symptoms have gone away.
