Examination of rectum under anaesthesia

This procedure can be performed in order to establish a diagnosis in patients with pain around the back passage which cannot be examined in the office or as part of a procedure. It usually involves a rigid sigmoidoscopy and/or proctoscopy and examination of the back passage while you are pain free and under a regional (spinal) or general anaesthetic. Once a diagnosis is reached further curative procedures can take place such as taking biopsies or dealing with other pathology including haemorrhoids, anal fissure or anal fistula. These potential procedures will be discussed with you prior to the EUA.

Recovery

After the procedure you will be taken to the recovery room. EUA is normally performed as a day case procedure but sometimes patients may need to spend a night in hospital depending on any additional procedures performed. You are typically expected to go home once you are eating and drinking, are able to manage the pain and walk unaided and have passed some urine. Your doctor will inform you of the diagnosis and any follow-up arrangements in anticipation of any results from biopsies. Recovery depends on whether any additional procedures are performed. If no additional procedures have been performed you should be able to return back to work within 24 hours. You will not be able to drive for 24 hours, you need to avoid alcohol and signing any important legal documents and need to ensure that a responsible person will be with you for at least 12 hours.

Risks of procedure

If no additional procedures are performed the risks include complications common to all surgical procedures such as infection, bleeding, blood clots, heart problems, pneumonia, urinary retention, development of hernia and anaesthetic risks.