Diseases of the anus and rectum are diseases that are seen by the proctology medical branch. Both surgeons and gastroenterologists approach this branch, each one according to their specialty and training. Some general surgeons take the proctology subspecialty as an additional study.
Sicknesses Handled
Gastroenterologists are also used to handling proctological problems, and frequently resolve them. Only the most complex cases that need to be referred for surgery (such as a perinatal fistula) are referred to the surgeon promptly. The management of hemorrhoids, anal fissures, perianal itching, and other problems of that nature is usual for them. In some cases, such as hemorrhoid management, we can provide an effective, less painful, and cheaper solution than hemorrhoid surgery.
Any rectal bleeding is essential to assess and rule out the cause. It is dangerous to assume that they are hemorrhoids and do not have to consult a doctor. Specialists consider the case, decide if additional studies such as colonoscopy are necessary, and seek to provide a solution.
Pain when defecating should be evaluated. It can be due to a thrombosed hemorrhoid (with a clot inside it), a chronic anal fissure (which requires a different and specific treatment), or other causes as a rectal abscess or an anal tumor. All of this must be assessed in the physical examination. Several of these problems can be handled in the office quickly and easily.
Hemorrhoids can be managed with oral treatment, local creams, or hemorrhoid ligation. Only rarely is significant surgery required to resolve them. Hemorrhoid ligation is practical, relatively simple, and much cheaper solution for hemorrhoids. It is less invasive than surgery and has a much faster recovery.
Simple sounding problems like anal itching (pruritus) can turn into a real headache for the patient and require our intervention.
A chronic fissure is another proctological problem with excellent effectiveness and grateful patients because it is very annoying. Very rarely does this problem end in surgery when we take action on the matter.
Laser Technology Available To Advanced Proctology
Laser surgery has become a proctology equipment and therapies of choice in the treatment of proctology. Used in other specialties such as Ophthalmology or Urology, the laser provides significant postoperative pain benefits with a lower percentage of postsurgical complications.
