Rectoscopy

Rectoscopy

This is a diagnostic examination for rectum and part of the sigmoid colon using a rectoscope through the anus. The rectoscope is a thin tube with a diode light and a carbon dioxide supply for straightening of the intestine walls. A tiny camera at the top of the rectoscope records and transmits an enlarged, high-quality image to a monitor for further detailed examination.

Indications for the rectoscopy:

Like other types of endoscopic diagnostics, it is highly informative for visualizing the state of the intestine: relief, color, hydration of the epithelium, the vascular network state, tissue elasticity, intestinal muscle tone, the signs of pathological changes in the mucosa and neoplasms. The received information ensures accuracy of the further diagnosis. The rectoscopy is part of the examination during the consultation of a proctologist and is performed primarily for preventive purposes. There are absolute indication for the rectoscopy as following:

• pain in the anus area;
• pain and difficulty of defecation;
• bloody, purulent and mucous secretions from the anus;
• persistent and long-lasting constipation or diarrhea;
• other complaints that cause suspicion of intestinal diseases.

In case of pathological changes in the intestinal mucosa, the doctor may conduct a biopsy - to take a small sample of tissue for further histological examination with a microscope. The histological examination shows whether the process occurring in the tissues is benign or malignant, so is the most effective way to determine earliest development of cancer. Biopsy has no contraindications, and is painless and safe for both the mucosa and neoplasms.

The rectoscopy can be perform for pregnant and children, but in case of strong medical indications.

Features of rectoscopy:

The examined intestine area is 35 cm. The average procedure duration is 10 minutes and depends on the nature of the complaints as well as the presence of changes in the mucous. During the rectoscopy CO2 is constantly supplied to reduce irritating on the mucous of the intestine, which improves the quality of the examination and reduces discomfort from it.

Rectoscopy is generally painless, but it is stopped at the slightest pain.

How to prepare for rectoscopy:

The effectiveness of the diagnosis depends no less on the thoroughness of the patient's preparation for the procedure. A diet that does not cause flatus is recommended the day before the examination. It is necessary to refuse dinner, tea or water without gas is allowed. A cleansing enema should be performed in the evening and morning before the diagnosis.

Contraindications to the rectoscopy:

• profuse bleeding;
• inflammatory processes;
• an acute fissure of the anal canal;
• channel narrowing;
• injuries of the anus.

In these conditions, the rectoscope examination is postponed until their manifestations are eliminated with conservative treatment.

The quality of endoscopic examinations in our clinic

We guarantee the comfort and safety of diagnostic endoscopic examinations thanks to well professional and experienced doctors, high-quality endoscopic equipment, as well as treatment and diagnostics standards following EAES (European Association for Endoscopic Surgery and other Interventional Techniques) and UEG (United European Gastroenterology) protocols.

Our gastroenterologists are well professional and experienced in diagnosis and treatment. We guarantee the comfort and safety of diagnostic endoscopic examinations due to high-quality endoscopic equipment and responsibility of our doctors. All the invasive manupulations and treatments are performed in accordance with EAES (European Association for Endoscopic Surgery and other Interventional Techniques) protocols and UEG (United European Gastroenterology).