Rectoscopy
A rectoscopy ( rectoscopy ) is used to examine the rectum and usually also the last centimeters of the anus (with proctoscopy : proctorectoscopy ). This examination is carried out by a doctor in either a practice or a clinic. A reflection of the entire large intestine is called a colonoscopy .
preparation
The preparation for the examination is very easy, only the rectum has to be emptied so that the examination is not hindered by stool remains. For this purpose, a strong laxative is administered as an enema or suppository about an hour before the examination , which leads to an emptying of the bowel within 15 to 30 minutes . In the past, a cleaning enema with a larger amount of liquid was often given here, but this had a negative effect on the following investigation. Since some rinsing fluid remained in the intestine even after a waiting period of one hour, it always had to be sucked off during the examination, which impaired the quality of the examination and extended the duration of the examination.
method
For this examination, first described in the 1st century by the Greek surgeon Leonidas, a rigid rectoscope about 20 to 30 centimeters long and about 2 centimeters in diameter is usually used. For some time now, flexible endoscopes about finger thickness and about 60 centimeters in length have also been used. The patient is examined in the left lateral position or on a special rectoscopy table in which the patient assumes a kind of knee-elbow position. Furthermore, the supine position (similar to the gynecologist) is possible. The instrument is advanced under sight and inserted in full length. By means of air insufflation, the intestine is expanded to allow the mucous membrane to develop and can be carefully examined for possible damage.
The examination takes about 5 to 10 minutes. Here may inflammations , bottlenecks, diverticulum (sacs), hemorrhoids and so-called polyps are discovered. Polyps can develop into colon cancer over the course of several years (see also adenoma-carcinoma sequence ) and should therefore be removed (also as part of a screening colonoscopy). Also, bleeding endoscopically treated. Endosonography (an intraluminal ultrasound examination) can be performed through the rectoscope. For example, the depth of infiltration of adenomas and / or carcinomas is examined. The examination itself is often found uncomfortable and can occasionally be a bit painful, especially due to the air that is blown in, which can cause severe gas.
See also
Individual evidence
- ^ Wolfgang Wegner: Leonidas of Alexandria. In: Werner E. Gerabek , Bernhard D. Haage, Gundolf Keil , Wolfgang Wegner (eds.): Enzyklopädie Medizingeschichte. De Gruyter, Berlin / New York 2005, ISBN 3-11-015714-4 , p. 840 f .; here: p. 840.
