Anoscopy at OpenMed Warsaw

Anoscopy is a brief, minimally invasive proctological examination that allows assessment of the terminal section of the rectum and the anal canal. A speculum - the anoscope - is used, which lets the doctor directly view the mucous membrane. If you notice rectal bleeding, pain, itching or discomfort during bowel movements, it's worth seeing a proctologist. At OpenMed in Warsaw (Wola), we perform anoscopy in a calm atmosphere, with a thorough discussion of the result and clear recommendations.

What Is Anoscopy?

Anoscopy is a basic examination in the diagnosis of diseases of the terminal section of the digestive tract. It allows the detection of inflammatory changes, haemorrhoids, anal fissures, polyps and other abnormalities requiring further diagnostics. The examination is quick and usually does not require special preparation, and once performed, it makes it possible to decide on further treatment during a single visit.

Mateusz Kaczmarski, MD

When Is Anoscopy Worth Performing?

Symptoms in the anal area are common and do not always indicate a serious condition, but they require medical evaluation. Our specialists at OpenMed refer patients for anoscopy when accurate assessment of the source of the complaints and exclusion of changes requiring treatment is necessary. The most common indications for the examination are:

rectal bleeding, especially during bowel movements,
pain, burning or itching in the anal area,
suspicion of haemorrhoids or an anal fissure,
a feeling of incomplete bowel emptying or the presence of "something" in the anus.

Early diagnostics allows treatment to be implemented sooner and helps avoid worsening of symptoms.

What Does an Anoscopy Look Like?

Anoscopy is performed during a proctological visit. The patient takes a position that allows assessment of the anal area, and the doctor gently inserts the anoscope into the anal canal. The examination usually takes a few minutes. It may cause slight discomfort but should not be painful.

During the examination, the doctor assesses the condition of the mucous membrane, the presence of inflammatory changes, haemorrhoidal nodes or other abnormalities. If necessary, it is possible to take samples for further tests or to plan the next stages of diagnostics. After the anoscopy is finished, our doctors discuss the result and propose further management.

Preparation and Safety

In most cases, anoscopy does not require special preparation. Sometimes the proctologist may recommend a small enema before the examination to improve visibility. The examination is safe and performed on an outpatient basis.

At OpenMed we take care of patient comfort because we know that proctological examinations can involve psychological discomfort. Every stage of the visit is explained in a calm and understandable way, and the examination is conducted with respect for privacy.

Book a Consultation at OpenMed Warsaw

If you notice worrying symptoms in the anal area or want to check your health in this area, book an appointment with a proctologist at OpenMed Warsaw (Wola). Phone and online registration available - the team will help you choose a suitable consultation time and plan further diagnostics.

FAQ Anoscopy Warsaw

: The examination may cause slight discomfort, but it is not painful and only takes a few minutes.
: Most often, no. In some cases, the doctor may recommend an enema before the examination.
: Usually a few minutes, and the entire visit with a discussion of the result takes about a dozen minutes.
: Yes - the examination allows accurate assessment of the presence and severity of haemorrhoids.
: The examination can be repeated according to clinical need. The doctor decides whether a further examination is needed based on symptoms and the course of treatment.
: No - anoscopy assesses only the terminal section of the rectum and the anal canal. Colonoscopy is indicated when changes higher up in the large intestine are suspected.