Proctology

Proctology is a field in medicinedealing with diseases and disorders of the rectum, anus, colonand pelvic floor. The word Proctology is derived from the Greekwords Proktos, meaning anus or hindparts, and Logos meaning science or study.

Physicians specializing in this field of medicine are called proctologists. Most proctologists are surgeonsby training. Proctologists often work closely with urologists.

Scope of the specialty

Proctological disorders include:

• varicosities or swelling, and inflammationof veinsin the rectum and anus (Hemorrhoids)
• unnatural cracks or tears in the anus (Anal fissures)
• abnormal connections or passageways between the rectum or other anorectal area to the skin surface (Fistulas)
• severe constipationconditions
• fecal incontinence
• protrusion of the walls of the rectum through the anus (Rectal prolapse)
• birth defectssuch as the imperforate anus
• cancer of the colon and rectum (Colorectal cancer)
• anal cancer(rare)
• any injuries to the anus

See also

• The proctoscope(an instrument for visualising the rectum)

External links

• Diagram of an anal fissure and fistulade:Proktologie

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This article is licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License.
It uses material from the http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Proctology Wikipedia article Proctology.