A proctologist is a surgeon who specializes in the lower digestive tract. Proctologists are also known as colorectal surgeons. They prevent, diagnose, and treat conditions such as, but not limited to colon and rectal cancer, Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn’s disease, sexually transmitted diseases of the anus, pilonidal cysts, colon polyps, internal and external hemorrhoids, anal fissures, anal abscess, anal cancer, and anogenital warts.
To become a proctologist, doctors complete at least 10 years of training. This training includes four years of medical school, five years of general surgery residency, and one additional year of specialized training in colon and rectal surgery.
Proctologists are trained in various surgical and non-surgical procedures, including laparoscopy, robotic surgery, and colonoscopy. They also provide topical treatment or advice for dealing with certain diseases. If you have any issues involving the colon, rectum, or anus, a proctologist is the expert you should consult.
Proctologist vs. Colorectal Surgeon
Are you curious about the differences between a proctologist vs. a colorectal surgeon? You’re not alone. Many people use these terms interchangeably but refer to the same field. However, there are subtle distinctions in historical context and modern usage when searching for a proctologist vs. a colorectal surgeon. Understanding these differences can help you find the right specialist for your needs.
What Treatments & Procedures Do Proctologists Offer?
Here are some common conditions proctologists specialize in:
Hemorrhoids: Swollen veins in and around the anus. Often caused by straining, obesity, or constipation, internal and external hemorrhoids can lead to discomfort, pain, and bleeding.
Anal Fissures: Small but painful tears in the anal lining, usually caused by diarrhea, hard stools, or straining.
Anal Fistulas: Infected tunnels between the skin and anus, often the result of a gland infection. Anal fistulas require surgical treatment to clear the infection and close the tunnel.
Pilonidal Cysts: Painful, cyst-like growths at the base of the tailbone that contain hair and skin debris. Treatment options include drainage and surgery.
Perirectal Abscess: Painful infection near the anus. This needs to be drained and usually can be done in the office.
Colonoscopies: Cancer starts as a small growth, called a polyp, in the colon or rectum. Proctologists recommend regular colonoscopies to detect and remove polyps early before they progress into cancer.
Condyloma (Genital Warts): Caused by HPV, these genital warts look like small, cauliflower-like bumps and can be treated with topical medications or surgical removal.
Genital Herpes: This is a viral STI that causes painful blisters and sores. Certain antiviral medications can help manage and prevent outbreaks.
Anal Cancer: Unlike colon or rectal cancer, anal cancer is a skin cancer which can be treated very successfully with chemotherapy and radiation therapy. The proctologist usually makes the diagnosis with a biopsy.
HIV Associated Anal Diseases: HIV can lead to anal ulcers and inflammation, requiring an evaluation in the proctology office.
Here are some common conditions colorectal surgeons specialize in:
All of the above proctology conditions.
Colon and Rectal Cancer: Colon and rectal surgeons perform surgery, whether open, laparoscopic, or robotic to remove the cancer.
Rectal Prolapse: When the rectum slips out through the anus due to weakened muscles. Often mistaken for hemorrhoids, but unlike hemorrhoids, rectal prolapse requires surgical repair.
Crohn’s Disease & Ulcerative Colitis: Crohn’s is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that can affect any part of the digestive tract, while Ulcerative Colitis impacts the colon and rectum. Proctology treatment helps to manage these chronic conditions effectively. Colorectal surgeons perform abdominal surgery for these conditions when needed.
What to Expect During a Proctologist Visit
When you visit a proctologist for the first time, expect a thorough check-up and check-in. A proctology appointment typically starts with a chat about your medical history and current symptoms. You can prepare by jotting down symptoms, past and current medications, and locating medical history documents. This consultation will give the proctologist a clearer picture of your situation.
Next, you’ll lie on your left side on the examination table while the proctologist examines your abdomen, rectum, and anus. It may feel awkward, but this position is standard for a complete assessment. Some proctologists have patients on their knees with their butt in the air (knee-chest or prone jackknife position). If you’re experiencing significant pain, the proctologist will try to minimize discomfort. For example, if a patient comes in with sharp pain and I suspect a fissure, I inform them that I only need a visual look. In these cases, no instrumentation or digital examination is necessary for a fissure diagnosis.
During the examination, if internal hemorrhoids are enlarged, painless hemorrhoid therapy can be performed to shrink the hemorrhoids and stop the bleeding. The downtime is minimal and I suggest no heavy lifting that day and back to complete normal the next day.
Depending on your symptoms, like bleeding, the proctologist may schedule you for a colonoscopy. Colon health issues can vary widely in severity, and many symptoms can be mistaken for different conditions. Getting an accurate diagnosis is crucial—some problems may require surgery, while others can be treated less invasively.
How do Proctologists Differ from Other Doctors?
Proctologist vs. Gastroenterologist: Key Differences Explained
Proctologists are surgeons who specialize in the lower digestive tract, focusing on conditions related to the colon, rectum, and anus. They are trained to perform both diagnostic and surgical procedures. On the other hand, gastroenterologists are internal medical doctors who have not trained in surgery. They make the diagnosis and, when possible, treat it with medications. Gastroenterologists also focus on the broader digestive system, including the stomach, pancreas, and liver.
While gastroenterologists can perform colonoscopies and remove polyps or band hemorrhoids during the procedure,, they won’t perform surgery on hemorrhoids or cancer if diagnosed. Some proctologists, like myself, also will not perform the surgery as we only work on the anus and very distal rectum. To learn more about the differences, check out our article on Proctologist vs. Gastroenterologist: What’s the Difference?
Urologist vs. Proctologist: Key Differences Explained
Urologists are surgeons who specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the urinary and reproductive systems, such as but not limited to urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney stones, erectile dysfunction (ED), prostate issues, and overactive bladder. By contrast, proctologists treat issues related to the lower digestive tract and anus. A proctologist will evaluate the prostate on rectal examination like a urologist. If there is an abnormality, the proctologist will refer to a urologist.
When to Schedule a Proctologist Visit
Getting ahead of proctologic issues can make all the difference—don’t let a little embarrassment stand in the way of your health.
Many people turn to online searches instead of talking to their doctor about anus or rectum issues. However, nothing beats a face-to-face chat with a proctologist. Quickly addressing your concerns prevents more serious complications down the line. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms below, it’s time to close your browser and pick up the phone to schedule an appointment.
Rectal Bleeding: Excessive blood is one red flag (literally) that should never be ignored. Regardless of whether it’s bright red, black or dark red/purple, seen in the toilet bowl or mixed in stools, it’s important to seek medical advice immediately.
Mucous Discharge: Unexplained yellow discharge from the anus is common, especially among older adults. If you notice this symptom, don’t hesitate to contact a specialist.
Lumps or Bumps: Any unusual lumps around the anal region could be linked to hemorrhoids, but they might also indicate more serious conditions such as infections, anal warts, or even cancer.
Anal Pain: Sharp or dull pain outside or inside the anus requires an evaluation by a proctologist
Tailbone Pain: Pain and a bump at the tailbone could be a pilonidal cyst, requiring drainage if infected.
Abdominal Bloating and Gas: This is usually bacterial dysbiosis or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and may require a colonoscopy.
Keep an eye out for other symptoms like unexplained changes in your bowel habits, swelling, itching, or irritation around the anus, unexplained weight loss, and abdominal pain.
How to Find a Proctologist
If you’re noticing troubling changes and aren’t sure where to turn, start with your primary care doctor. They will point you in the right direction and, if needed, recommend and refer you to a specialist. If you want to get right to the bottom of it (pun intended), you can contact a proctologist directly.
I suggest checking out the ASCRS website for reliable listings of proctologists and colorectal surgeons near you. If you’re in the Thousand Oaks, California region, out of state, or out of the country, my practice, Thousand Oaks Proctology, is open to diagnosis, treatment, and education about various rectal conditions.
To assist your search for a proctologist, here are some important questions to consider:
What experience does the proctologist have with my specific condition? Levels of expertise vary, so review the clinic website for confirmation that the proctologist specializes in treating your condition, whether it’s hemorrhoids, anal fissures, colorectal cancer, or inflammatory bowel disease.
What treatments or procedures does the proctologist offer? Look for a proctologist who is experienced in both non-surgical and surgical treatments. It’s good to know your options!
What do patient reviews and feedback look like? Check what other patients say about their experiences with the proctologist. Online reviews, testimonials, and word-of-mouth recommendations can give you valuable insights.
Is the proctologist available for a consultation before I make a decision? I encourage patients to ask if the doctor offers an initial consultation or evaluation. This is a great opportunity to discuss your needs and explore treatment options together.
Talking about rectum and anal problems doesn’t have to be awkward. At Thousand Oaks Proctology we combine compassionate care with a pinch of humor. Contact us today, and let’s get to the bottom of your concerns.
