Anal / Rectal Operation
Date issued: December 2024
For review: December 2026
Ref: A-661/TA/Colorectal/Anal /Rectal Operation
PDF: Anal / Rectal Operation (Tavistock Hospital)[pdf] 170KB
You may be having one or more of the procedures outlined below:
Examination under Anaesthetic (EUA)
You will be given a general anaesthetic, which means you will be put to sleep for this procedure. The surgeon is then able to take a more detailed look at your back passage.
Sigmoidoscopy
The sigmoid colon is the lower end of the bowel extending upward 17 inches from the anus and rectum. A sigmoidoscopy is an examination of the rectum and sigmoid colon using a sigmoidoscope to allow a direct visual examination.
Proctoscopy
This procedure is used to investigate the anus and lower rectum.
Anal Fissure
A fissure is a surface tear of the anus that can be very painful as it causes muscle spasm. This can cause pain on the passage of a motion. Treatment is either by a sphincterotomy or anal stretching.
Lateral Sphincterotomy
This is where the surgeon slightly nicks the sphincter (muscle of the anus to weaken the muscle which should relieve pain on passing of a motion.
Anal Stretch
The surgeon stretches the anus to allow easier passage of motions.
After the operation
The above procedures are usually performed under a general anaesthetic.
Once you are awake you will return to the ward, and you will be encouraged to sleep off the anaesthetic. You will remain on the ward for a minimum of one hour to allow you to recover from your anaesthetic after your operation.
Discharge
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Before you can be discharged both your surgeon, and the anaesthetist must agree that you are fit to go home.
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A letter will be sent to your GP explaining the operation you have had and detailing any medication you may have been prescribed.
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If you require an out-patient’s appointment you will receive an appointment by post.
Advice
If any problems occur in the first 24-48 hours and you need information or advice, please contact: Tavistock Hospital: 01752 436100
In an emergency, please return to the Emergency Department at the Hospital or ring for an ambulance. After 48 hours, if you are worried or concerned that you’re feeling unwell or that something isn’t right, please contact your GP to make an appointment or 111 if out of hours.
If you feel like you need to pass urine, but you cannot, please phone Postbridge Ward: 01752 431225 and speak with a member of staff.
