Proctoscopy or Anoscopy is an examination of your back passage (lower rectum and anal canal). The test can be performed in clinic by your doctor and takes a few minutes. It allows the doctor to diagnose conditions of the back passage such as haemorrhoids (piles) anal fissures (tears), polyps (growth) and inflammation.

The instrument is a small, short, rigid, hollow tube (proctoscope/anoscope) that may contain a light source is used to look at the last 2 inches (5 cm) of the back passage (anal canal). The examination can usually be done at any time because it does not require any special preparation (enemas or laxatives) to empty the rectum.

It also allows for banding of haemorrhoids (piles) which is a simple and effective treatment for early haemorrhoids (piles).