Rectoscopy (rectoscopy) in Bern at Vivomed
Rectoscopy, also known as rectoscopy, is a proven endoscopic examination for the targeted clarification of complaints in the rectum. At Vivomed - Gastroenterology Bern, we perform rectoscopies gently, efficiently and with modern technology - for patients from Bern, German-speaking Switzerland, Valais and beyond.
What is a rectoscopy?
A rectoscopy provides a direct view of the mucous membrane of the rectum and is an important diagnostic procedure for rectal bleeding, pain or unclear changes. Rectoscopy describes the examination of the last 20-30 cm of the large intestine - i.e. the rectum - and the last few centimetres of the anus. The rectum is the approx. 10-15 cm long section of the rectum, following the approx. 2-4 cm long anal canal. If only the anal canal up to approx. 20 cm is examined, this examination is called a proctoscopy; the examination of the entire colon is called a colonoscopy.
When is a rectoscopy useful?
A rectoscopy is useful if, for example
- Blood in the stool or blood on the toilet paper
- Pain or a feeling of pressure in the rectum
- Changes during bowel movements
- to rule out constrictions (stenoses) and protrusions of the bowel wall (diverticula),
- Suspicion of hemorrhoids
- Polyps in the rectum (for diagnosis and removal)
- constipation (for diagnosis)
- Mucus discharge or oozing
What is the preparation for a rectoscopy?
- No fasting required
- In preparation for the rectoscopy, the rectum should be emptied and clean. For this purpose, an enema can be administered before the examination.
- Please state any blood-thinning medication in advance
Bring enough time for the consultation and examination. Our practice will provide you with detailed information in advance on how best to prepare yourself.
Rectoscopy procedure at Vivomed
At our practice in Bern, we attach great importance to a clearly structured and patient-friendly procedure:
- Preliminary discussion & medical history
- Discussion of your symptoms, medication (especially blood thinners) and previous illnesses. - Brief preparation
- In many cases, a small enema is sufficient, which is performed either at home or in the practice. - Performing the rectoscopy: The patient lies on a couch on their left side during the examination. For the examination, a rigid tube, the rectoscope equipped with a light source, or a flexible examination tube is inserted into the rectum, which is then inflated by blowing air into it. If necessary, the examination can be carried out with a mild sedative (sedation). The examination usually only takes a few minutes.
- Direct discussion of findings
- Results are explained immediately and the next steps are determined together.
Sedation is not usually necessary as the examination is well tolerated.
FAQ questions: Rectoscopy.
Is a rectoscopy painful?
Rectoscopy is painless or completely painless.
A slight feeling of pressure or stretching may occur, but severe pain is rare. Our experienced team ensures a gentle procedure and clear communication during the examination.
Your advantages at Vivomed - Gastroenterology Bern
- Specialized gastroenterological clarification: Many years of experience in endoscopic examinations of the rectum.
- Central location in Bern: Easily accessible for patients from Bern, German-speaking Switzerland, Valais and beyond.
- Comprehensible advice: We explain findings clearly and transparently - without unnecessary technical terms.
- Efficient & outpatient: Short examination times, quick results, rapid further planning.
- Fast appointments without long waiting times.
What can be treated during a rectoscopy?
Haemorrhoids are clearly visible during a rectoscopy. If complaints such as bleeding or pain etc. are caused by the hemorrhoids, they can be treated directly. During this examination, the mucous membrane of the haemorrhoids can be tied off using a device with a small rubber ring. The rubber ring falls off a few days later. This causes a small local inflammation. This heals with scarring and thus reduces the blood flow to the hemorrhoids. This treatment procedure is also known as rubber band ligation. In rare cases, the rubber band ligation may cause pain or slight bleeding when the ring falls off.
