Rectoscopy Cracow

Rectoscopy is a specialized endoscopic examination that allows for a detailed assessment of the inner surface of the rectum and the lower part of the large intestine. For this purpose, an instrument called a rectoscope is used, which is a rigid tube equipped with an optical system that allows the doctor to accurately examine the inside of the rectum on a monitor.

The use of rectoscopy is broad and includes the diagnosis and sometimes also the treatment of various medical conditions. This test can detect polyps, tumors, inflammations, ulcers and other anomalies that may be present in the rectum and lower part of the large intestine. Thanks to the possibility of taking tissue samples (biopsy) during the examination, rectoscopy also allows for accurate histopathological examinations, which is crucial in oncological diagnostics and other disease processes.

Rectoscopic examination is used for prophylactic purposes, especially in people over 50. years of age or in people with a family history of bowel disease, allowing for early detection and prevention of more serious health problems such as colorectal cancer.

Rectoscopy is therefore an important tool in proctological diagnostics, providing valuable information that can contribute to a quick diagnosis and implementation of appropriate treatment.

Rectoscopic examination is carried out in the city of Krakow Prokocim.

In order for the rectoscopic examination to run smoothly and effectively, thorough preparation is necessary. Here are the key steps you should follow:

1. Perform a rectal infusion on the eve of the examination: We recommend using the rectal infusion in the evening, the day before the scheduled examination. You can use over-the-counter preparations such as RECTANAL or ENEMA, which are available in pharmacies.

2. Perform another infusion on the day of the examination: 3 hours before the planned rectoscopic examination, perform another infusion to clean the rectum as much as possible.

3. Limit yourself to a liquid diet on the day of the test: On the day of rectoscopy, it is recommended to drink only fluids and avoid solid foods until the end of the examination.

Preparation according to the above guidelines will help to minimize discomfort and increase the diagnostic precision of rectoscopy. If you have any questions or ambiguities about the preparation process, feel free to contact our team. We provide comprehensive support and are at your disposal to facilitate the preparation and the examination itself.

Symptoms suggestive of the need for rectoscopy may include:

1. Rectal bleeding: The presence of fresh blood on toilet paper, in the stool, or bleeding seen in the toilet after a bowel movement.
2. Changes in bowel habits: Sudden constipation or diarrhea, especially if it lasts for more than a few days.
3. Abnormal shape of stool: Tape-shaped or pencil-shaped stool may indicate a narrowing in the rectum.
4. Unusual urge to defecate: Feeling of an incomplete bowel movement or a futile urge to defecate.
5. Pain in the anal area: Especially if it is not related to external causes such as hemorrhoids.
6. Unexplained weight loss: Losing weight for no apparent reason can be a wake-up call.
7. Chronic abdominal pain or discomfort: Especially if it is accompanied by other gastrointestinal symptoms.
8. Traces of blood in the stool: The presence of blood in the stool, even if it is not visible to the naked eye (occult bleeding).
9. Itching in the anal area: Especially if it persists and there is no known source.
10. Presence of nodules or masses in the rectal area: Possible palpable during personal hygiene, or medical examination.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a proctologist. He or she may recommend rectoscopy for more accurate diagnosis and early detection of potential health problems.

The most common contraindications to rectoscopy include:

1. Acute inflammation of the large intestine: Such as severe forms of ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease in the active phase, where there is a risk of perforation or worsening of inflammation.
2. Advanced diseases of the rectum: In which an extremely high risk of tissue damage or perforation is an obstacle to the safe conduct of the test.
3. Blood clotting disorders: Patients with uncontrolled blood clotting disorders or those who are taking anticoagulants may be at increased risk of bleeding during or after rectoscopy.
4. Acute systemic infections: A general infection condition where additional invasive testing could increase the risk of sepsis.
5. Acute heart or lung failure: A condition in which the stress of the study could worsen existing cardiac or pulmonary problems.
6. Acute anal pain: For example, an acute attack of hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or other conditions that could make the examination extremely painful or risky.
7. Recent rectal or colon surgeries: The period immediately after surgery requires the avoidance of additional stress on the operated areas until they are fully healed.
8. Pregnancy: Especially in the third trimester, although the decision to perform rectoscopy in pregnancy should be carefully considered by the doctor based on a risk-benefit assessment.

In any case, the decision to perform rectoscopy should be individually tailored to the patient’s medical condition, after careful consideration of the potential risks and benefits. If any of the above contraindications occur, your doctor may look for alternative diagnostic methods.

Before performing rectoscopy, it is important to prepare the body, which also includes special rules for diet. Here are some guidelines to help you prepare:

1. 1-2 days before the test: It is recommended to switch to an easily digestible diet. Avoid hard-to-digest foods such as raw fruits and vegetables, seeds, nuts, whole grains, and red meat. Choose easily digestible meals, such as boiled vegetables, white meat, fish and easily digestible groats.
2. The day before the test: On the day before rectoscopy, you should limit yourself to fluids. Clear liquids such as water, tea without milk, clear juices without pulp (e.g. apple juice) and broths are allowed. Avoid red and purple liquids, which can stain the inside of the intestine, making the examination more difficult.
3. 12 hours before the test: It is recommended to abstain from food altogether so that the intestine is as empty and clean as possible. You can drink clear liquids up to about 6 hours before your scheduled rectoscopy appointment.
4. Liquids allowed up to 6 hours before the test: Clear liquids, such as water or tea, can be consumed up to 6 hours before the test. Remember not to drink or eat anything 6 hours before your rectoscopy to ensure the best conditions for the examination.

Preparation for rectoscopy is crucial for the effectiveness of the examination. Proper cleansing of the intestine allows for a more thorough and safer examination. If you have doubts about your diet or preparation, consult your doctor or the clinic’s medical staff.

The frequency of rectoscopic examinations depends on several factors, including your individual risk of developing colorectal disease, your medical history, and the results of previous examinations. Here are some general guidelines:

1. People with no symptoms and no history of colorectal disease: For people with no symptoms suggestive of rectal or colon problems and no family history of colorectal cancer, rectoscopic examination may not be required on a regular basis. However, it is recommended that you consult your doctor, who may recommend a test for colorectal cancer when you reach 50. years of age.

2. People with symptoms: If there are symptoms such as rectal bleeding, unusual changes in bowel movement rhythm, pain in the anal area, or worrying results of other tests, rectoscopy may be recommended regardless of age to diagnose the cause.

3. People with a history of colorectal disease: People who have previously had polyps, colorectal cancer, or have a family history of these diseases may need regular rectoscopic examinations. The frequency of these tests depends on the individual risk assessment, but it can be every 1-3 years.

4. People after polyp removal: After the removal of the polyps, a follow-up rectoscopic examination is recommended to monitor the appearance of new polyps. Your doctor will determine the frequency of tests based on the type of polyps removed and other risk factors.

5. People with inflammatory bowel diseases: Patients with inflammatory bowel diseases, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, may need regular rectoscopic exams to monitor inflammation and detect precancerous lesions. The frequency recommended by your doctor depends on the severity of your illness and its duration.

The final decision on the frequency of rectoscopy should be made by the doctor, who takes into account the patient’s individual medical situation. It is important to consult your doctor regularly and follow recommendations for screening and diagnosis.