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Anoscopy

An indispensable procedure in diagnosing hemorrhoids and detecting colon tumors

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Medicine > Proctology > Diagnostic > Anoscopy

Anoscopy – A key procedure in diagnosing hemorrhoids and detecting colon tumors

Anoscopy is a medical procedure used to visually assess the anal canal and the lower part of the rectum using an anoscope – a special instrument that allows viewing the internal structures of the anal area. This examination plays an important role in diagnosing hemorrhoids, anal fissures, fistulas and anal polyps, but also in the early detection of colon cancer.

According to statistics, hemorrhoids affect as many as 50% of the population over 50 years of age, while 40% of women develop them after pregnancy. On the other hand, Croatia ranks second in the EU in terms of the number of deaths from colorectal cancer, which further emphasizes the importance of regular check-ups.

What is anoscopy and how is it performed?

Anoscopy is a short, painless and minimally invasive examination that is performed on an outpatient basis. The examination takes only a few minutes and allows the doctor to perform a detailed analysis of the mucous membrane of the anal canal.

The procedure includes:

  • Digitorectal examination – the doctor gently inserts a finger covered with a glove to assess the presence of hemorrhoids or other changes.
  • Insertion of a lubricated anoscope into the anal canal.
  • Visual assessment of the anal mucosa.
  • If necessary, tissue samples (biopsy) are taken for further analysis.

In the case of high-resolution anoscopy (HRA), special optical equipment is used for a more detailed examination, and an acetic acid solution can also be applied to better detect cell changes.

Why is anoscopy important in the diagnosis of hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are varicose veins of the anal canal that can cause itching, pain, and bleeding. We distinguish between internal and external hemorrhoids, where internal hemorrhoids are often not visible from the outside and can only be detected by anoscopy.

Anoscopy allows:

  • Accurate assessment of the size, location and degree of hemorrhoids.
  • Timely selection of therapy (conservative therapy, sclerotherapy, surgical interventions).
  • Early detection of complications such as thrombosed hemorrhoids.

Early detection enables effective treatment, prevents the progression of the disease and improves the patient’s quality of life.

Colon cancer and anoscopy as a preventive method

Colon cancer develops over many years, often without pronounced symptoms in the early stages. When symptoms appear, patients may mistake them for hemorrhoids or other benign problems.

The most common symptoms of colon cancer include:

  • Bleeding during bowel movements
  • Changes in stool rhythm (diarrhea or constipation)
  • Weight loss for no known reason
  • Feeling of incomplete discharge

Anoscopy is used as an auxiliary method in early diagnosis, especially when there is a suspicion of:

  • Anal polyps, which can be benign or pre-stage cancer.
  • Unexplained bleeding, especially in combination with other symptoms.
  • Abnormal growths in the anal region.

Preparation for anoscopy

Unlike other endoscopic examinations, anoscopy does not require special preparation. However, it is recommended:

  • Defecating before the examination
  • Wearing comfortable clothes
  • Avoiding alcohol and smoking before the procedure
  • Tell your doctor about the medications you are taking (especially anticoagulants)

If additional preparation is required, the doctor will inform you during the consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Anoscopy

1. Is anoscopy painful?

Most patients experience only mild discomfort, but no pain. The examination is short and takes only a few minutes.

2. When is it necessary to perform anoscopy?

Anoscopy is recommended for bleeding, pain, itching, suspected hemorrhoids, fistulas or anal polyps.

3. How long does recovery take after anoscopy?

There is no need for special recovery – after the examination, patients can immediately return to their daily activities.

4. Can anoscopy detect cancer?

Yes, anoscopy can help in the early detection of cancer of the anal canal and colon, especially when combined with a biopsy.

5. How often should anoscopy be done?

People with a history of hemorrhoids or anal problems should have an examination at least once a year, while in case of symptoms, it is recommended to schedule an examination immediately.

Where to perform anoscopy?

The Lohuis Filipović Polyclinic provides top-notch diagnostics and treatment of anal problems using the latest techniques of anoscopy and other proctological examinations.

📍 Address: Trg johna Fitzgeralda Kennedya 6b, Zagreb
📞 Contact: +385 1 2444 646
🕒 Working hours: Mon – Fri: 10:15 – 18:15
📅 Online appointments: via web form

Do not delay the examination – anoscopy is a quick and painless way for early diagnosis and timely treatment.

Your experts

The main goal of LF Polyclinic is to improve the quality of life and health of our clients by providing them with top-notch healthcare services.

Dr.sc. Josip Baković, dr.med.

specialist in general surgery, subspecialist in abdominal and oncological surgery

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What do our patients say about us?

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J.Lj.

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I did rhinoplasty along with face tight treatment and the results were more than satisfactory. The guys (Boris and Peter) did everything at the same time, very professionally and in the shortest possible timeframe. I was out of tampons in 2 days, and my bruise recovery does not take longer than 7 days. Very gentle approach. Without unnecessary arrivals, with kind and friendly staff and arranging payments where flexibility was at an enviable level, the impression of service in this clinic is for every recommendation. Of course, I don’t even have to mention that my breathing is better now than before, and my facial skin is smooth and tight without any invasive method. Guys, you are the best. :)

A.P.

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I had unwittingly been suffering from hypopnea for nearly a decade. I did some research and I selected this clinic because it was located in a country where I have many friends. I had already been treated for this by a different physician in Canada, a surgery was done in my nose to remove an obstruction and believed it was better, but I was wrong. The Canadian doctor proposed dealing with the problem by CPAP or further surgeries. Their solution was to remove the first obstacle they find, see if that helps, if not, then remove the next obstacle etc. I had been using caffeine to stay awake, but my physical and mental performance was severely impacted by chronic sleep deprivation. At my first meeting, I was surprised to actually meet Dr. Filipovic, I presumed I would be looked after by an associate Doctor. I explained my suspicions and situation and told him, I do not want to go through multiple procedures to find one that worked. He listened, looked into my nose and proposed that I schedule and undergo a general anaesthesia, where he would be able to insert a camera and record what happens when I actually sleep. In addition I took home a wearable monitor for the night. After these diagnotics, it was found that a mandibular advancement device or CPAP would work for me. CPAP is not good for me because my young children would tear it apart. I had to leave Croatia earlier than planned, when I told his team. They moved heaven and earth to rush the casting, production and shipping of the device to me in Canada. Once I arrived here, his dentist responded to my emails to ensure I had proper guidance on how to adjust and use the device. It works wonderfully and with the clarity of thought that comes from regular sleep, I realized I should have a backup mandibular advancement device made, to use if my device is destroyed by my children. His team again did a wonderful job of using the casting I sent back to produce a 2nd set and ship it to Canada. I have tested the second device for a week now and it works as well as the first. I would highly recommend this team for their professional, courteous and effective effort. If, time & money allows and vanity demands, I would go to this team for a rhinoplasty in the future. Thank you all for improving my quality of life and work performance.

M.K.

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For so long I was dissatisfied with the breathing and the appearance of my nose. Of course the first step was to google rhinoplasty and read comments on forums of the people who did it in Croatia. That did not help because the amount of negative experiences only scared me. But I also read that the most important thing is to find a great surgeon so I finally went to meet with dr. Filipović. I met him, he explained the procedure and answered all my questions. On that first meeting I felt so confident that I even reserved a date for my surgery. Finally in November 2020 I had septorhinoplasty performed by dr. Filipović. They arranged that I stayed in the clinic for one day after the procedure. That really meant a lot, and I'm grateful for that. Recovery went fast and well, I almost had no bruising at all. I'm quite sensitive, so I felt some pain in the first 3 days after, but nothing too bad. It is now 2 months post-op and I look and feel better than ever. The result looks really natural, and it fits my face perfectly. The only regret that I have is that I didn’t do it sooner. Dr. Filipović is a miracle worker, and I will forever be grateful to him and his team.

M.G.

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I've done plasma skin regeneration and skin boosting treatment there. Clinic is beautiful, stuff is very friendly, young and with great knowledge and experience. I would recommend it to anyone who is looking high quality in every aspect. Thank you!

M.S.

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A month ago, I was on a lip lift with Dr. Filipović. The result is fantastic, as was the experience of consultation and surgery. The doctor and nurses are professional and approachable and inspire confidence. The lip lift turned out great and looks natural, but it's a big enough change that it affected the look of the whole face. The swelling subsided after about a week, and the scar under the nose is visible a month later, but it is not overly conspicuous.
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