What department should be consulted for anal polyps?
Nov 14, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Jingxiang
Introduction
In general, the main medical departments for treating anal polyps include proctology, colorectal surgery, gastroenterology, general surgery, and emergency medicine. If you notice any abnormalities in the anal area or suspect symptoms of polyps, it is recommended to promptly visit the appropriate department at a正规 hospital for evaluation and diagnosis. In daily life, maintain good anal hygiene by cleaning the perianal area with warm water every day to reduce bacterial growth, and avoid prolonged sitting or standing.
Generally, departments where anal polyps can be treated mainly include proctology surgery, colorectal surgery, gastroenterology, general surgery, and emergency medicine. If you notice any abnormalities in the anal area or suspect symptoms of polyps, it is recommended to promptly visit the appropriate department at a正规 hospital for evaluation and diagnosis. Specific details are as follows:
1. Proctology Surgery
Proctology surgery specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases of the anus and rectum, with extensive experience in the diagnosis and treatment of anal polyps. The department can determine the location and size of polyps through digital rectal examination and anoscopy, and also perform targeted treatments such as polyp excision. It is suitable for most patients with anal polyps as their first point of consultation.
2. Colorectal Surgery
Colorectal surgery focuses on disorders of the colon, rectum, and anal region. Since anal polyps are common lesions at the distal end of the rectum, they fall within the scope of this specialty. The department can conduct more detailed examinations such as colonoscopy to check whether polyps are accompanied by other colorectal abnormalities, and provide standardized surgical treatment plans accordingly.
3. Gastroenterology
If patients with anal polyps also experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, or rectal bleeding, they may choose to see a gastroenterologist. This department excels in using endoscopic examinations to assess the entire digestive tract, determine the nature of the polyps, and remove certain types of polyps via minimally invasive endoscopic techniques, while simultaneously evaluating overall digestive health.
4. General Surgery
In some hospitals that do not have dedicated proctology or colorectal surgery departments, general surgery can manage cases of anal polyps. This department can perform basic evaluations to clarify the condition and provide initial management for simple polyps. For complex cases, they will coordinate referrals to more specialized departments, making it a practical option for patients in areas with limited medical resources.
5. Emergency Department
If an anal polyp suddenly causes heavy bleeding, severe pain, or prolapses and cannot be reduced, immediate care at the emergency department is required. The emergency team can rapidly control bleeding and stabilize acute symptoms. Once the patient's condition is stabilized, they will be referred to a specialist department for further treatment, preventing delays in managing urgent conditions.
In daily life, maintain good hygiene around the anal area by washing with warm water daily to reduce bacterial growth. Avoid prolonged sitting or standing, and engage in moderate physical activity to promote blood circulation in the anal region. Diet-wise, consume more fruits and vegetables rich in dietary fiber to keep bowel movements regular and avoid straining during defecation, which could irritate the polyps. Seek medical attention promptly if you notice polyp enlargement, frequent bleeding, or pain—do not delay treatment.
