Rectoscopy, proctoscopy & anoscopy in Bern - at Vivomed
Vivomed - Gastroenterology Bern offers specialized examinations of complaints in the rectum and anal area: from proctoscopy and anoscopy to rectoscopy/proctoscopy. Our practice combines professional expertise with gentle methods - for patients from Bern, German-speaking Switzerland, Valais and beyond.
These examinations are crucial in cases of pain, bleeding, itching, irregularities or unclear complaints in the rectum and anus area and enable precise diagnostics and direct treatment planning.
What are rectoscopy, proctoscopy & anoscopy?
During a rectoscopy (technical term proctoscopy or anoscopy), the anal canal and rectum are examined to a depth of around 20 cm.
If the anal canal is examined to a depth of around 30 cm, this examination is called a rectoscopy, while an examination of the entire large intestine is called a colonoscopy.
Anoscopy: Visual inspection of the anus and lower rectum using a rigid, short tube (anoscope). Ideal for examining superficial changes.
Proctoscopy/rectoscopy: Examination of the rectum using a slightly longer, rigid instrument (proctoscope/rectoscope). In contrast to a fullcolonoscopy, these methods focus on local complaints in the area of the anus and rectum.
When is a rectoscopy (proctoscopy, anoscopy) useful?
An examination of the rectum may be recommended if the following symptoms or findings are present:
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haemorrhoids (for diagnosis, treatment and monitoring)
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inflammation in the area of the rectum (cryptitis)
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inflammation of the rectal wall and anal canal (proctitis)
- Rectal bleeding or blood on toilet paper
- Pain in the rectal/anal area
- Itching, burning or oozing
- Unclear changes in the anus
- Detection of mucus or fibrin in stool
- Unclear pain after bowel movement
How is the bowel prepared for a rectoscopy (proctoscopy, anoscopy)?
No preparation is required for a proctoscopy (no bowel cleansing).
What is the procedure for a rectoscopy (proctoscopy, anoscopy)?
The procedure at Vivomed in Bern is designed to be efficient, understandable and as comfortable as possible for you:
- Preliminary consultation with medical history
- complaints, previous illnesses, medication (incl. blood thinners). - Brief preparation on site
- Depending on the procedure, a simple local cleaning may be necessary. - Anoscopy/proctoscopy: The patient lies on a couch on their left side during the examination. For the examination, a rigid examination device equipped with a light source (anoscope, proctoscope) is inserted into the rectum. The examination takes about 5 to 10 minutes and complications are very rare if performed correctly. The examination is not perceived as painful.
- Small interventions may be possible directly
- e.g. removal of superficial polyps or ligation of haemorrhoids with rubber bands (rubber band ligation). - Discussion of findings
- Direct evaluation, planning of further steps.
What can be treated during a rectoscopy (proctoscopy, anoscopy)?
Haemorrhoids are easily visible during a rectoscopy (proctoscopy, anoscopy). 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 ligated using an apparatus 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.
FAQ questions: rectoscopy (anoscopy, proctoscopy).
Does the rectoscopy hurt?
Anoscopy and proctoscopy are painless, as the area is easily visible and deep sedation is not usually required. Slight feelings of pressure or stretching may occur. Mucosal injuries such as anal fissures may cause pain due to stretching, although this can be addressed individually.
How long does the examination take?
Usually only a few minutes, including discussion of the findings about 10-15 minutes.
Do I need any preparation?
No special bowel evacuation is usually necessary for the anoscopy/proctoscopy - a slight preparation can be discussed depending on the symptoms.
When should I seek medical help immediately?
- Acute, heavy bleeding
- Fever + pain
- Severe stool retention
Rectoscopy in Bern - advantages with Vivomed
- Experience & expertise: Our gastroenterologists are specially trained for rectal endoscopies, proctoscopies and anoscopies and have many years of experience with local patients from Bern, German-speaking Switzerland and Valais.
- Local proximity, regional relevance:
Thanks to our central location in Bern, we are easily accessible for patients from: Bern & surrounding area, German-speaking Switzerland (e.g. Biel, Thun, Solothurn)
Valais, supra-regionally for specific complaints - Comprehensive information & aftercare: Clear, understandable information before, during and after the examination - this promotes trust and ensures safe treatment results.
