proctology

Colorectal surgery is a field in medicine, dealing with disorders of the rectum or anus. The field is also known as proctology, but the term is outdated in the more traditional areas of medicine. The word proctology is derived from the Greek words Proktos, meaning anus or hindparts, and Logos meaning science or study.

Physicians specializing in this field of medicine are more commonly called colorectal surgeons, or less commonly, proctologists. Colorectal surgeons often work closely with urologists.

In the United States, some surgeons (MDs) are certified by the American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery while some osteopathic surgeons (DOs), which are also equally licensed proctologists, are certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Proctology. DOs may attain board certification under the American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery while MDs may not attain board certification under the American Osteopathic Board of Proctology.

Scope of the specialty

Colorectal surgical disorders include:

• varicosities or swelling, and inflammation of veins in 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 constipation conditions
• fecal incontinence
• protrusion of the walls of the rectum through the anus (Rectal prolapse)
• birth defects such 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 visualizing the rectum)

External links

• Anal Fissure Diagram
• American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery
• American Osteopathic Board of Proctology.
• American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons

This medical article is a stub. You can help Wikipedia by expanding it. v • d • e