Proctologists specialize in treating problems affecting the anus and rectum. They can help you with problems such as anal fistulas, condyloma and pruritis ani.
They may use anoscopies, a diagnostic procedure in which they insert a tube with a light (anoscope) into your anus and rectum. They can also use a high-resolution anoscope that adds a magnifying device and allows them to see abnormal cells better.
Anal fistulas 항문전문병원
An anal fistula is a channel that forms from the end of your bowel to an opening in your skin (anus). Fistulas can develop when you have a persistent infection near the anus or after surgery to remove an abscess. They can also be caused by Crohn’s disease, injury to the anus, and hidradenitis suppurativa (chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes pus-filled infections or abscesses in the anal canal and perianal area).
Treatment for fistulas aims to heal them and minimize damage to your sphincter muscles that open and close your anus. Most fistulas are treated surgically with a technique called a fistulotomy, which involves cutting along the entire length of the fistula. This results in a flat scar. Other options include a LIFT procedure, which involves closing (ligation) the portion of the fistula tract that passes between your two sphincter muscles.
Having Mayo Clinic specialists in colon and rectal surgery, gastroenterology, and wound care work together gives you the best chance of getting a correct diagnosis and the right treatment for your anal fistula. This team approach allows your health care providers to review your medical records quickly, communicate efficiently, and coordinate your health care with one another.
Anal condyloma
The human papilloma virus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted disease and causes a number of skin and mucosal alterations in the genital area. Specifically, it can cause anal warts or condylomata acuminata, which are flesh colored, itchy lesions that can grow on the outside and inside of the anus.
Anal warts should be removed, because if they are not treated, HPV can multiply and lead to more advanced pre-cancerous changes called dysplasia that may lead to anal cancer. Depending on the size and location of your warts, treatment can include topical creams or surgery with either a surgical blade or laser ablation.
If biopsies from anal warts show higher grade anal dysplasia, your doctor will work with you to create a surveillance schedule that includes a yearly visit to an anal clinic. During this visit, your doctor can perform an internal exam with a gloved finger and digital rectal examination to check for signs of cancer or pre-cancerous changes.
Pruritis ani
Pruritis ani is a condition that causes itching in the area of your anus. This itching can be intense and is usually worse at night or after a bowel movement. It is often difficult to stop scratching the area, which can lead to skin damage and even bleeding. A colon and rectal surgeon can help you find the cause of your pruritis ani.
Irritation caused by fecal matter, a yeast infection and other skin conditions are common causes of pruritis ani. Irritation may also occur as a result of long-term diarrhea or other changes in your diet.
While it is important to clean the anal area after a bowel movement, it must be done gently. Aggressive cleaning with soaps, scents or lotions can damage the anal skin’s natural barriers and make itching worse. Irritation may also be due to medications or psychological factors. Washington University colorectal surgeons offer a management plan that includes avoiding irritants, reducing itching and preventing skin changes.
Anal reconstruction
The anus is a sensitive and delicate area of the body, which requires special care. It is prone to many conditions that affect its shape, appearance, and function. These include sphincter muscle problems, hemorrhoids, anal fistula, and skin tags. These conditions can be treated with anal reconstruction.
The surgery is performed under anesthesia and involves removing scar tissue from the anal canal to restore its width and structure. The surgeon also resects any abnormal growths and tightens or loosens the anal wall to reduce pain, inflammation, and injury.
Other treatments may also help treat anal fistulas. These include warm baths, medications that can help the anal fissure heal, and fiber therapy. Some patients also require sphincter relaxants. It is important to follow a low-fiber diet and drink plenty of water during the recovery process. Some patients may experience a bowel movement for the first few weeks after anal surgery. For those who do not have a regular bowel movement, they should use a mild laxative or take anal hygiene soap.