Videoanoscopy

Videoanoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that allows medical professionals to examine the anal canal and the lower rectum using a highly sensitive camera. This minimally invasive procedure provides clear visualization of internal structures, enabling the detection of abnormalities such as hemorrhoids, fissures, polyps, or tumors. By utilizing video technology, the diagnostic physician can obtain detailed images, aiding in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. In the "Dobrobut" medical network, our experienced specialists possess all the necessary techniques and utilize modern equipment for the examinations.

When to Consult a Doctor

Consider seeking medical advice for video anoscopy if you experience:

Any bleeding from the rectum — requires investigation to rule out potential conditions such as polyps, hemorrhoids, or malignant formations.
Persistent episodes of diarrhea, constipation, or noticeable changes in stool consistency — may indicate gastrointestinal pathology.
Prolonged discomfort, pain, or cramps in the lower abdomen that do not subside with standard treatments.
Significant weight loss occurring without changes in diet or physical activity may signal gastrointestinal issues.
Family history of colorectal cancer.

Indications and Contraindications

Video anoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a camera-equipped anoscope to examine the anal canal and lower rectum. It provides a more detailed view than a standard anoscope due to improved video quality.

Indications for Video Anoscopy:

Anal fissures: to assess chronic or recurrent anal fissures and evaluate their severity or any underlying conditions contributing to poor healing.
Hemorrhoidal diseases: to evaluate internal hemorrhoids, determine their severity, and plan treatment options if necessary.
Anal and rectal polyps: to identify and assess polyps located in the anal canal or lower rectum that may require removal or biopsy for further investigation.
Anal cancer: to evaluate suspected lesions in the anal area that may indicate anal cancer, as video anoscopy allows for high-resolution visualization and targeted biopsy.
Chronic anal pain: to investigate the causes of chronic anal pain that are not explained by external examination, potentially revealing issues like ulcers or hidden infections.
Anal infections and inflammatory conditions such as abscesses or sexually transmitted infections affecting the anal canal and inflammatory states like proctitis.
Anorectal fistulas: to assist in diagnosing and assessing fistulas, providing clearer images of internal or external openings and any related pathologies.
Monitoring chronic diseases to detect changes or recurrences.

Video anoscopy expands the diagnostic capabilities for these conditions, providing clear, enlarged views of the anal canal and lower rectum, often allowing for more precise diagnosis and treatment planning.

Contraindications may include acute inflammation, such as severe proctitis, significant bleeding disorders that pose a high risk of bleeding, and acute anal infections that could be exacerbated by the procedure or increase the risk of complications.

Preparation

Preparation for video anoscopy includes several key steps:

Pre-procedural Consultation: Discussing the procedure, its purpose, and potential risks.
Dietary Restrictions and Bowel Preparation: Patients are usually advised to follow a clear liquid diet and use prescribed clean-out methods to ensure optimal visualization of the anal canal.

How the Procedure is Conducted

Video anoscopy typically takes about 10 to 20 minutes. This includes time spent on inserting the anoscope, visualizing the anal canal and lower rectum, and possibly performing any necessary interventions, such as biopsy or polyp removal. The overall duration of the procedure may increase to 30-40 minutes depending on the complexity of the intervention.

The patient is comfortably positioned, often lying on their side with knees drawn to the chest. To minimize discomfort during the procedure, local anesthesia or anesthetic gel may be applied. The lubricated video anoscope is carefully inserted into the anal canal, allowing the specialist to visualize the area on the monitor.

The doctor examines the internal structures, and any abnormalities are assessed or documented.

Results are communicated to the physician who requested the examination. Although video anoscopy is a safe procedure, mild discomfort may be felt afterward due to manipulation or the insertion of instruments; in some cases, slight bleeding may occur, especially if a biopsy was performed.

Appointments for consultations can be scheduled through the form on the website or by contacting the call center.