What are the qualifications of a proctologist?

Much like you would in any other life situation, you would want to put a lot of thought into choosing a proctologist. Before selecting the best proctologist for your treatment, make sure you do a little research about their qualifications. Learning about the doctor’s qualifications and their total experience in the field will help you put your trust in someone with the proper qualifications. Proctologists generally have an MBBS degree and a master’s degree or DNB in general surgery. 

What procedures and surgeries can be performed by a proctologist?

Proctologists are experts in diagnosing and treating a range of anorectal conditions. In the present times, proctologists are also commonly known as colorectal surgeons. They receive extensive training in performing traditional as well as advanced surgeries for various conditions concerning the anus and rectum. 

A trained proctologist can perform the following diagnostic procedures: 

• Digital Rectal Exams: In this exam, the proctologists use their fingers to check for issues in the lower rectum and prostate. 
• Anoscopy: This diagnostic involves inspecting the anorectal region with the help of a device called an anoscope. 
• Colonoscopy: In a colonoscopy, the doctor uses a colonoscope to examine the colon and rule out colorectal cancer. This procedure is sometimes used for polyps removal as well. 
• Endorectal ultrasound: This is another imaging test for diagnosing colorectal cancer and other conditions. 
• Proctoscopy: In this diagnostic test, a proctologist examines the rectum and anus and generally extracts tissue for polyps. Sometimes, it may also be used for removing polyps.  
• Sigmoidoscopy: This procedure helps examine the sigmoid colon, i.e., the lower third of the colon. 

Aside from the diagnostic tests, proctologists or colorectal surgeons also perform various surgeries to treat different anorectal conditions. They undergo extensive training in performing traditional open surgeries for anorectal conditions, along with advanced and minimally invasive laparoscopic, robotic, and laser surgeries. Some common conditions that proctologists treat through surgery are as follows: 

• Piles or hemorrhoids
• Anal fissure
• Anal fistula and abscesses
• Polyps
• Rectal prolapse, etc. 

When should an individual consult a proctologist?

Anorectal conditions exhibit various symptoms, which are sometimes manageable, but may require a doctor’s attention in the rest of the cases. Therefore, individuals need to know when a visit to the proctologist might be warranted. If you notice any anorectal abnormalities or experience discomforting symptoms that affect your quality of life, make sure you see a proctologist without delays. Listed below are some indications that your condition warrants a proctologist’s attention: 

• A lump outside the anus that can be seen or felt. It can most likely be hemorrhoid. 
• Pain, redness, and swelling on the buttocks, most likely caused by an abscess. 
• Discharge from the anus caused due to a sexually transmitted disease (STD).
• Bleeding from the rectum or bright crimson blood on the toilet paper. 
• If you’ve tried conservative methods, the condition hasn’t improved. 
• If you’re passing maroon or tarry-colored stool. This can be indicative of bleeding. 
• Change in bowel habits. 
• You’re above 50 years old and require a regular colonoscopy. 
• You have had polyps in the past and need a routine colonoscopy. 
• You have a family history of colorectal cancer or colon polyps. 
• You have been diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome or IBS and wish to seek relief from it.
• Any other abnormal symptoms that you think should get assessed. 

How to choose the best proctologist in Chennai

To get an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment for conditions affecting the colon, rectum, and anus, you must seek treatment from the best proctologist in Chennai. Your choice of doctor will play a major role in determining the efficacy of your treatment. Therefore, make sure you do thorough research to find the best proctologists near you and make the right decision. While looking for the best proctologist in Chennai, make sure you consider the following factors: 

• Gather information about the qualification of the doctor. A good proctologist will have an MBBS degree and a master’s degree or DNB in general surgery. You should also research if the doctor has published any research papers or studies on anorectal conditions or surgeries. 
• Check out the doctor’s skills and how well-versed they are with the latest treatment methods. A proctologist should have enough expertise in performing both traditional and advanced diagnostic tests and surgeries with precision. 
• Go through patient reviews, and talk to people to see what they have to say about the doctor. Patient reviews help understand the doctor’s expertise in the field, the success rate of treatments, and how they behave with the patients. Reviews are easily 
• Check out the total experience of the doctor and the number of successful surgeries they have performed over the years.
• Read about the hospitals that the doctor has practiced at. This will also give you a good idea of the doctor’s experience.