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Related Concept Videos

Assessment of the Rectum and Anus01:25

Assessment of the Rectum and Anus

Evaluating the rectum and anus plays a crucial role in conducting a thorough physical examination of the gastrointestinal system. Although it may be uncomfortable and often embarrassing for the patient, it holds immense diagnostic value, particularly in detecting gastrointestinal diseases and abnormalities. This guide will explain how to perform this assessment using inspection and palpation methods.
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
Assessing Body Temperature - Rectal01:27

Assessing Body Temperature - Rectal

Rectal temperature measurement is considered the most precise method for assessing core body temperature and typically registers higher than oral temperature. For adults, the rectal thermometer should be inserted 1 to 1.5 inches into the rectum to obtain the most accurate reading.
Follow these steps for rectal temperature assessment:
Step 1: Perform hand hygiene and don clean gloves to prevent cross-infection.
Step 2: Position the patient in a side-lying position to better visualize the rectal...
Esophageal Varices-II: Clinical Features and Management01:28

Esophageal Varices-II: Clinical Features and Management

Esophageal varices often manifest as gastrointestinal bleeding episodes, presenting symptoms like hematemesis (vomiting of blood), hematochezia (passing fresh blood via the rectum), and melena (black, tarry stools). Other signs can include weight loss, anorexia, abdominal discomfort, jaundice, pruritus, altered mental status, and muscle cramps.
In the initial assessment, a thorough review of the patient's medical history is vital to identify risk factors such as liver disease, alcohol abuse, or...
Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy01:26

Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy

Sigmoidoscopy and laparoscopy are distinct medical procedures that enable physicians to internally inspect different parts of the GI tract. Although they serve different purposes, each is essential for diagnosing and, in some cases, treating various medical conditions.
Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a flexible sigmoidoscope equipped with a light source and camera to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. The procedure involves inserting the tube through the anus...
Assessment of the Abdomen I: Inspection and Auscultation01:25

Assessment of the Abdomen I: Inspection and Auscultation

Introduction
The abdominal examination is a cornerstone of clinical medicine, serving as a critical tool in diagnosing various gastrointestinal (GI) diseases. It involves a systematic approach that includes inspection and auscultation, each with distinct yet complementary roles in assessing the abdomen. This article will delve into these two primary methods healthcare professionals use to examine the abdomen.
Inspection of the Abdomen
The first step in any abdominal examination is inspection.
Endoscopic Procedures II: Colonoscopy01:25

Endoscopic Procedures II: Colonoscopy

The colon, or large intestine, is the final segment of the digestive system. Its primary functions include absorbing water and vitamins produced by gut bacteria and transforming waste from liquid to solid to form stool. In adults, the large intestine is approximately 5 feet long and consists of four main sections:

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Updated: Jun 17, 2026

Flexible Colonoscopy in Mice to Evaluate the Severity of Colitis and Colorectal Tumors Using a Validated Endoscopic Scoring System
15:49

Flexible Colonoscopy in Mice to Evaluate the Severity of Colitis and Colorectal Tumors Using a Validated Endoscopic Scoring System

Published on: October 16, 2013

Office evaluation of rectal bleeding.

Martha A Ferguson1

  • 1Georgia Colon and Rectal Surgical Associates, Atlanta, GA 30342, USA. mferguson@gcrsa.com

Clinics in Colon and Rectal Surgery
|December 17, 2009
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Rectal bleeding requires a systematic evaluation to rule out malignancy. Consider further colon investigation even with anorectal sources, based on patient risk factors.

Keywords:
Rectalbleedingbloodfissurehemorrhoidsmalignancy

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Flexible Colonoscopy in Mice to Evaluate the Severity of Colitis and Colorectal Tumors Using a Validated Endoscopic Scoring System
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Area of Science:

  • Colorectal Surgery
  • Gastroenterology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Rectal bleeding is a frequent clinical presentation.
  • Prompt evaluation is crucial to exclude colorectal cancer.
  • Multiple diagnoses may coexist, complicating assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To outline a systematic approach for evaluating rectal bleeding.
  • To emphasize the importance of considering malignancy.
  • To guide the extent of colon evaluation based on risk factors.

Main Methods:

  • Clinical examination including digital rectal exam.
  • Anoscopy and rigid proctosigmoidoscopy.
  • Flexible sigmoidoscopy for comprehensive office evaluation.

Main Results:

  • A systematic approach aids in identifying serious pathology.
  • An anorectal source does not preclude the need for further colon evaluation.
  • Patient-specific risk factors dictate the diagnostic pathway.

Conclusions:

  • A thorough, systematic evaluation is essential for rectal bleeding.
  • Malignancy must be a primary consideration.
  • Risk stratification guides the decision for extended colon evaluation.