What is proctology?
Proctology refers to the area of medicine that focuses on diseases affecting your anus and rectum. The physicians in this field, called proctologists or colorectal surgeons, are skilled surgeons who also have extensive experience in the nonsurgical treatment of anorectal issues.
What proctology conditions might I develop?
Though Surgical Specialists of NY diagnose and treat anal, rectal, and colon cancers, proctology focuses on benign anorectal diseases. A few of the most common include:
Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids develop when veins in your rectum and around your anus become enlarged and swollen. If you have internal hemorrhoids, you may see bright red blood in the toilet after a bowel movement. External hemorrhoids cause pain, itching, and skin irritation.
Anal fissures and fistulas
A fissure is a small tear in the anal lining. A fistula refers to an abnormal tunnel that develops between the anus and skin, usually due to an infection.
Anorectal abscess
An abscess begins when anal glands become infected, causing a painful, swollen pus-filled area.
Pruritus ani
If you have an irritating, itchy feeling around your anus, you have pruritus ani. The itchiness can develop without any apparent reason. The problem also occurs as a symptom of many conditions, including hemorrhoids, incontinence, anal fistulas, and anal fissures.
Perianal dermatitis
This refers to a rash around your anus. Causes include allergic and contact dermatitis, infections, inflammatory skin conditions, cancer, and poor hygiene.
Anal condyloma
Anal condyloma, more commonly known as anal warts, develop when you become infected with the sexually transmitted human papillomavirus.
How do proctologists diagnose anorectal conditions?
After reviewing your medical history and symptoms, the team at Surgical Specialists of NY performs a physical exam. The results of your exam determine if you need additional diagnostic testing, such as:
- Anoscopy
- Digital rectal exam
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy
- Ultrasound or MRI
Diagnostic imaging reveals the structure and function of the sphincter muscles, anal canal, and rectum.
What proctology treatments might I receive?
The diverse diseases affecting your anus and rectum may require many different types of treatments. Surgical Specialists of NY take a common sense approach to anorectal diseases.
Your customized treatment begins with the most appropriate conservative therapy. They only recommend surgery when absolutely necessary.
If you have any questions about problems with your anus or rectum or you need to schedule an appointment, call Surgical Specialists of NY or book online today.
