What is proctology?
Proctology is a branch of medicine that deals and focuses on the diseases of anal area, rectum and colon. Abscesses and Fistula, piles, anal fissure and constipation – we are sure you must have heard at least two of these names. Well, these diseases and their treatment fall under proctology.
Who is the proctologist?
The word Proctologist aka use as the preferred term as a “colorectal surgeon” or “colon and rectal surgeon.”
As you must have understood by now, proctologists are the surgeons who diagnose and treat the diseases of the anus, rectum, colon, and the entire gastrointestinal tract.
Some of the diseases that come under proctology require surgery for treatment. Thus, the sector of surgery that deals with these diseases is termed proctology surgical medicine.
What conditions does a proctologist treat?
Here is a list of common health conditions that come under proctology and are treated by proctologists or colorectal surgeon:
- Abscesses and Fistula Treatment
- Piles (or haemorrhoids)
- Anal Fissure Surgery
- Colon Polyps
- Crohn’s disease
- Colorectal cancer
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Diverticulitis
- Rectal prolapse
When to see a proctologist?
Mostly, people visit a proctologist when any other doctor refers them to one. But there are certain symptoms that suggest you must visit a proctologist. They are as followed:
- Itching in the anal area
- Burning sensation near the anal area
- Bleeding or some sort of discharge from the anus
- Blood in stools
- Warts or bumps near the anal area. A sensation of a foreign body near the anus
- Anal pain or pain around the rectum
- Fecal incontinence (Inability to control bowel movement)
- Constipation
While seeing a proctologist, it is of utmost importance to share your issues openly. You must not shy away from sharing your symptoms. Otherwise, it will take a longer time and a series of extra tests to diagnose the real issue.
Some of the most common rectum and proctology examinations and surgical procedures include:
Anoscopy: It is a procedure to identify abnormalities or any other issues in the anus and rectum.
Colonoscopy: This procedure involves the doctor examining the overall colon and screening to detect colorectal cancer. During a colonoscopy, the doctor may also remove polyps
Sigmoidoscopy: In this, the doctor examines the lower third of your colon, which is called the sigmoid colon.
Proctoscopy: In this procedure, the doctor examines the rectum and anal area. He/she takes tissue for biopsy.
Ultrasound: An endorectal ultrasound can be performed to to help detect colorectal cancers.
External examination: At times, there are warts and bumps that can be identified with external examination itself.
What About proctology training and certification?
Proctology is a medical specialty that requires many years of training, which includes:
- 4 years of college for a bachelor’s degree
- 4 years of medical school
- Successful completion of a 5-year training program in general surgery
How to find a proctologist in your nearby Area (in Gurgaon Delhi NCR)?
Here are some important things to consider when looking for a proctologist or colorectal surgeon:
- Is the doctor or Surgeon board certified?
- Are they licensed to practice in your state?
- Can you set up a consultation to get to know your doctor prior to having any procedures done?
- What are their hospital & Clinic locations and hours?
- Where do they have hospital admitting privileges?
- If you’re having particular symptoms or procedures, what’s the doctor’s previous experience with disease and conditions?
Dr. Mir Asif Rehman an Expert proctologist in Gurgaon, with more than 16+ Years of experience. Dr. Mir Asif is a skillful, result-oriented, and accomplished general surgeon performing a wide range of surgical procedures with a strong track record of success in treating advanced conditions.
Dr Lalmalsawma Ralte is a senior consultant surgeon with comprehensive experience and exposure to diverse minimal access and proctology procedures since 2007.A keen interest in teaching fellow professionals and new innovative procedures. Proficient in various Laser-Assisted surgical procedures.
Conclusion :
It’s important to feel comfortable with your proctologist or colorectal surgeon. Because the relationship between doctor and patient depends on open and Good communications, trust, and sensitivity with care. Always remember, initial consultation talks about surgeon expertise and experiences.