proctologists

Proctologists are physicians who specialize in disorders of the rectum, anus, and lower gastrointestinal tract. In many countries the term proctology is used, but the field is more commonly referred to as colorectal surgery or colorectal medicine. Proctologists diagnose and treat a wide range of anorectal and colorectal conditions and work in hospitals, clinics, and academic centers.

Training and certification typically involve medical school, followed by a general surgery residency and a fellowship in colorectal surgery. Board certification or regional equivalents are pursued after completing specialty training. Depending on the country, proctology may remain a subspecialty of general or colorectal surgery.

Common conditions treated include hemorrhoids, fissures, fistulas, abscesses, anal and rectal prolapse, diverticular disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and colorectal cancer. Procedures range from office-based examinations and treatments such as digital rectal examination, anoscopy, colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy, and hemorrhoid banding or sclerotherapy, to operating room interventions like hemorrhoidectomy, fistula repair, sphincteroplasty, colectomy, proctectomy, and various restorative procedures. Proctologists often coordinate with gastroenterologists, oncologists, and other specialists to provide screening, diagnosis, staging, and treatment planning.

Because anorectal symptoms can overlap with other gastrointestinal disorders, professional evaluation is commonly recommended for persistent rectal bleeding, pain, or changes in bowel habits. The field emphasizes a combination of surgical and nonsurgical management tailored to disease severity and individual patient factors.