Proctoscopy
Proctoscopy is a quick and effective examination that uses a short, rigid, tube-shaped instrument (a proctoscope). It allows a doctor to directly see the inner surface of the rectum and anal canal to diagnose various conditions, such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, inflammation, or polyps. The procedure is important for finding the cause of discomfort, pain, or bleeding in the anal area.
When to see a specialist
Proctoscopy helps diagnose and clarify the following concerns:
- Hemorrhoids (internal and external)
- Anal fissures
- Pain or discomfort in the anal area
- Bleeding from the anus
- Itching in the anal area
- Inflammation in the anal area
- Polyps in the rectum
- Anal fistulas or abscesses
- A feeling of a foreign object in the rectum
- Suspicion of tumors in the anal area
Common symptoms
See a doctor, who may refer you for a proctoscopy, if you notice the following symptoms:
-
Constipation
If bowel movements are infrequent and difficult. -
Diarrhea
Diarrhea is persistent, recurrent, or accompanied by other gastrointestinal complaints. -
Discomfort or foreign body sensation in the rectum
Especially if it is persistent. -
Itching in the anal area
If the itching is persistent and bothersome. -
Pain in the anal area
If the pain is persistent, severe, or worsens during defecation. -
Rectal bleeding
Especially if it is persistent, recurrent, or associated with pain or discomfort. -
Swelling or redness in the anal area
Which may indicate inflammation.
How to prepare for your appointment
- Emptying the bowel: It is important that the rectum is empty before the examination. Usually, an enema given 1-2 hours before the procedure is sufficient. The doctor or nurse will give you exact instructions.
- Medications: Inform the doctor of all medications you are taking.
- Hygiene: Please wash carefully before coming to the examination.
- Questions: Think about any questions you may have about the examination and ask the doctor before the procedure.
- Fasting: The examination does not require fasting; you can eat and drink as usual.
What to expect during your appointment
Reception
We will welcome you and explain the procedure.
Positioning
You will lie on an examination table on your side or in a position with your knees bent.
Examination
We will carefully insert the proctoscope into the anus. Through the proctoscope, we will examine the lining of the rectum and anal canal.
Biopsy
If necessary, we will take small tissue samples (biopsies) from the lining during the examination for further analysis. This is painless.
End of the procedure
After the examination is finished, we will remove the proctoscope. The entire procedure usually takes only a few minutes.
Results
We will give you the initial results immediately and explain the next steps for your treatment plan.
Specialists providing this service
-
dr Julia BorissovaGastroenterologist
Rävala Clinic – Specialist Medical Care and Occupational Health
-
-
-
dr Liina Viidebaum
Gastroenterologist
Rävala Clinic – Specialist Medical Care and Occupational Health
-
Payment & Appointment Info
Prices
Tallinn
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Proctoscopy The need for and suitability of the procedure will be assessed during a prior consultation with a specialist in Meliva, and the decision to proceed will be made jointly with the specialist. | 47 € |
| Ligation of haemorrhoids Up to 4 ligatures | 95 € |
Everywhere else in Estonia
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Proctoscopy The need for and suitability of the procedure will be assessed during a prior consultation with a specialist in Meliva, and the decision to proceed will be made jointly with the specialist. | 47 € |
| Ligation of haemorrhoids Up to 4 ligatures | 95 € |
Payment methods
With a doctor’s referral, Meliva Health Insurance covers this service under Outpatient Care coverage. Check your personal coverage limits in the ERGO app.
Referral
A doctor’s referral is required to book this service.
Who is this appointment for?
Proctoscopy is intended for diagnosing problems of the rectum and anal canal in adults.
A referral is usually made by a family doctor or a specialist (a proctologist or gastroenterologist).
Proctoscopy is a safe procedure, but it has certain contraindications (e.g., acute inflammation, severe pain), which the doctor will inform you about.
It is a minimally invasive procedure and does not use ionizing radiation.
Clinics offering this service
-
-
Open
-
Open
-
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a proctoscopy?
A proctoscopy is a medical examination where a special instrument (a proctoscope) is used to view the lining of the rectum and anal canal to identify diseases and changes.
Is proctoscopy painful?
A proctoscopy may cause mild discomfort or a feeling of pressure, but it is not usually painful. The procedure is quick, and the doctor will do everything possible to make it as comfortable as possible.
How long does a proctoscopy take?
The proctoscopy procedure itself usually takes only 5–10 minutes.
What does a proctoscopy show?
A proctoscopy shows the condition of the lining of the rectum and anal canal and can identify hemorrhoids, anal fissures, inflammation, polyps, and other pathological changes.
Do I need a referral for a proctoscopy?
Yes, a referral from a doctor is usually required for a proctoscopy, as it is a specific diagnostic examination that a doctor decides is necessary.