At Colorectal Surgical Specialists of New York, we want to provide the most accurate and timely diagnoses possible. For this reason, we use a variety of techniques to test for colorectal conditions. During an anoscopy procedure at our Garden City, NY, office or one of our other area locations, your doctor will use a small lighted tube to view the area just inside your anus. In this way, he or she can check for anal fissures, cancer, hemorrhoids, and related problems. Once we know the cause of your discomfort, we will create a personalized treatment plan to reduce symptoms and restore your health. In some cases, an anoscopy can lead to a life-saving diagnosis.
An anoscopy is similar to other diagnostic tests, such as a flexible sigmoidoscopy. However, an anoscopy will look at a much smaller area of your digestive system. During this test, your physician will insert a small tube just into the opening of your anus. Using the scope, your doctor will carefully examine the lining of your anus and rectum, looking for small tears, polyps, inflammation, or other abnormalities.
Using the scope, your doctor will carefully examine the lining of your anus and rectum, looking for small tears, polyps, inflammation, or other abnormalities.
Because an anoscopy will only involve the last two inches of your colon, it does not require any special preparation or cleanse. In addition, the procedure is very quick, and you will not typically need anesthesia. During the test, you will lie on your side, and your doctor will gently insert the scope into your anus. This may be slightly uncomfortable, but you should not experience any serious irritation. The tube will be about 3 to 5 inches long and approximately 2 inches wide. Shining a light through this scope, your doctor can obtain a precise view of the nearby tissues.
In some cases, your physician may perform a digital rectal exam at the same time, using his or her finger to examine the opening. If your doctor notices anything unusual, he or she may take a biopsy. Removing a small sample of irregular tissue, we can test for cancer and other concerns.
Immediately after the procedure, you can return to your regular activities, and you will not have any dietary restrictions.
Through an anoscopy, your doctor can uncover a number of colorectal conditions. These include:
Hemorrhoids: Swollen veins around your anus and rectum can cause discomfort and bleeding during bowel movements.
Anal fissures: These small tears in your anus can develop if you struggle with chronic constipation or with Crohn’s disease.
Polyps: These small growths are usually harmless, but they can be cancerous. Therefore, it is important to have them tested.
Abscesses: Pus-filled sores can occur because of a blocked gland, an infection, an anal fissure, an STD, ulcerative colitis, or Crohn’s disease.
Cancer: Although anal rectal cancer is far less common than colon cancer, it is still important to screen for this disease, especially if you are experiencing any unusual symptoms.
If your anoscopy uncovers any problems, we will create a unique treatment plan to meet your needs. With early detection, it is often easier to treat anal or rectal concerns. We will always begin with the most conservative option, although we are ready to perform advanced surgery, if necessary.
If you are suffering from anal discomfort, an anoscopy may be the most effective way to diagnose the problem. Contact Colorectal Surgical Specialists of New York to schedule a screening.
The Colon & Rectal Surgical Specialists of New York provide comfortable, discreet, and private care from five locations throughout Long Island and Queens. Every member of our team is a respected leader in their field, and each is certified by both the American Board of Surgery and the American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery. We provide a complete set of services related to your colorectal health, including:
To request a consultation with our physicians, please fill out our online form or call 516-248-2422.
