What is an Anoscope?

Symptoms of hemorrhoids can sometimes be disguised as another underlying health condition especially if one of the symptoms is rectal bleeding. For this reason a lot of hemorrhoid sufferers consult a physician for a correct diagnosis of a hemorrhoid condition since rectal bleeding can signal other possible health problems.

When you seek diagnosis for hemorrhoids one of the examinations your physician may recommend is an anoscopy which is performed with an instrument known as an anoscope. This is a tubular instrument that contains a light on the end and is used to do an internal examination of your anal canal.

How is the Anoscopic Instrument Used?

During an anoscopy a lubricated instrument is inserted into your anal opening for the purpose of examining the inner lining of your anal canal. The procedure is used to identify an existing hemorrhoid condition and to rule out the possibility of another underlying health condition.

How an Anoscopy Works

Unlike a colonoscopy where there is a 2-day preparatory period prior to the examination, there is no need for advance preparation for an anoscopy. However your doctor may recommend an enema to clear your lower intestines of any fecal matter which can affect the test results.

At the beginning of an anoscopy examination you will be asked to lie on your side with your knees pressed against your chest. Your doctor will begin by examining your anus by inserting a lubricated gloved finger into your anal opening to check for irritation or any type of blockage.

One your doctor determines that it is safe to perform the anoscopy the exam will begin by inserting the lubricated instrument into your anal opening. Once inside the anoscope will be gently advanced through your anal canal while your doctor views the images of your anal canal on a monitor. As the instrument is slowly withdrawn the tissues of your lower intestine and anal canal will continue to be examined for any abnormalities and if necessary, a tissue sample may be taken through tiny forceps that are attached to the tube.

Once the anoscope is removed your anal area will be cleansed and you may feel some abdominal pressure and have the urge to pass gas. The entire examination takes about 15 minutes and you will be able to resume your regular diet when you return home.

Risks Associated with an Anoscopy Examination

Although an anoscopy is considered a low risk examination you may experience abdominal discomfort following the examination. Depending upon the severity of your hemorrhoid condition you may experience mild rectal bleeding as a result of the insertion of the instrument or if the inner lining of your anal canal happens to be damaged as a result of the examination.

What to Expect from an Anoscopy

There is some discomfort involved when the anoscope is inserted at the beginning of the examination. You can also expect to feel abdominal pressure during the anoscopy examination and may feel bloated with the need to pass gas.

Following the examination you can expect your doctor to discuss the results with you and if a tissue sample was taken the results will be available within a few days. If no abnormal growth was discovered your doctor will diagnose the severity of your hemorrhoid condition and recommend an appropriate treatment.

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