Proctology

Proctology deals with the study, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases of the lower part of the gastrointestinal tract – the rectum and colon. The gastrointestinal tract is a crucial system for the functioning of the human body, and any identified disorder within it can cause significant changes, pain, and discomfort.

Colorectal examination is essential in treating digestive organ diseases, as it allows the physician to identify the cause and severity of the disease.

A proctologist utilizes modern diagnostic technologies to examine the patient and prescribes treatment based on the gathered data. Proctological diseases can be treated using both surgical and non-surgical, conservative methods.

Common diseases include

• Hemorrhoids: swollen veins in the rectum that can develop inside or outside the rectum;
• Abscesses and fistulas: infections that develop around the rectum and anus;
• Anal skin tags: small benign skin grows that appear around the anus;
• Tumors of the colon and rectum;
• Diverticulitis: inflammation in weak areas of the digestive system that leads to the development of pouches;
• Fissures: tears in the mucosal lining of the anus;
• Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD): ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease are examples of inflammatory bowel diseases;
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): a combination of digestive symptoms unrelated to inflammatory bowel disease. Symptoms include abdominal bloating, spasms, constipation, and diarrhea;
• Polyps: precancerous growths in the colon that can develop into colon cancer;
• Rectal prolapse: the stretching of the anal opening, causing the rectum to protrude from its original position in the anal sphincter;
• Defecation disorders: constipation or fecal incontinence.

When to consult a doctor?

It is recommended to seek timely medical advice upon the appearance of any symptoms. It is crucial for the doctor to be aware of the entire spectrum of symptoms in order to diagnose and determine the best course of treatment.

• Bleeding or other discharges from the rectum;
• Itching or burning in the rectum;
• Incontinence;
• Appearance of anal warts, lumps, or the sensation of a foreign body;
• Pain in the rectum or anus.

Treatment options

At New Hospitals, modern methods for treating proctological conditions have been implemented, and the latest medical technologies are used during surgical treatments, improving the processes of treatment and rehabilitation.