Can a colonoscopy be performed for anal fissure?
Disease description:
I have recently experienced anal pain during bowel movements and was diagnosed with an anal fissure after examination. The patient is concerned that the anal fissure may affect the performance of a colonoscopy, and therefore inquires whether a colonoscopy can be conducted with an anal fissure present.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Li Jingxiang
An anal fissure is a tear in the skin and mucous membrane of the anal area, commonly seen in cases of difficult bowel movements or hard stools. Colonoscopy is an important diagnostic procedure used to examine the interior of the intestine for any pathological changes.
Prior to performing a colonoscopy, a physician will assess the severity of the anal fissure and the patient's overall health status. For mild anal fissures, the physician may recommend applying topical pain-relieving ointments to alleviate discomfort before proceeding with the colonoscopy. However, in cases of severe anal fissure symptoms, particularly when a deep ulcer has formed or the patient experiences severe pain, colonoscopy may exacerbate symptoms, and thus should be considered with caution.
