Quick answer: A rectal examination (rectoscopy) is an instrumental examination of a 15–20 cm section of the rectum, which may be carried out in cases of bloody stools, rectal pain or suspected haemorrhoids. At a private clinic, the exact cost of a rectoscopy depends on several factors – we set out in detail below what you can expect.
When experiencing rectal symptoms, many people are unsure which examination they need and how much it might cost. The question of the cost of a rectal examination comes up particularly often, as this test is less well known than a full colonoscopy – yet in many cases it is the first and most important diagnostic step.
This article explains exactly what a rectal examination is, when it is advisable to have one, how the examination is carried out, what you need to prepare for – and, most importantly for many patients, what factors influence the cost and how you can arrange to have one quickly and professionally.
What is a rectal examination (rectoscopy)?
A rectal examination – known medically as a rectoscopy – is a direct, instrumental examination of the inner surface of the rectum. The specialist uses a rigid, tube-like instrument, 22–30 cm long, to examine the final 15–20 cm of the large intestine, known as the rectum.
It is important to note the difference: this examination is not the same as a full colonoscopy, which examines the entire large intestine, nor is it the same as a gastroscopy. A rectal examination is shorter and is specifically designed to examine the rectum.
It also differs from a procedure known as anoscopy: with an anoscope, it is only possible to examine the immediate vicinity of the sphincter and the section approximately 3–4 cm above it. A rectoscope, by contrast, allows for a deeper view.
When is a rectal examination recommended?
A rectal examination is indicated in a number of symptoms and clinical situations. We have summarised the most common reasons below.
Diagnostic indications
- Bloody stools or rectal bleeding: If fresh, bright red or clotted blood is present, the examination helps to distinguish between haemorrhoids, an anal fissure, inflammation or a tumour.
- Pain and a burning sensation in the perianal area: In cases of recurrent or persistent symptoms, a rectoscopy accurately identifies the location of the cause.
- Changed bowel movements: If there is a persistent change in the consistency or diameter of the stool (e.g. „pencil-thin”), the examination may reveal the cause of the narrowing.
- Suspected haemorrhoids and anal fissure: The exact location and severity of internal haemorrhoids can best be determined by rectoscopy.
- Tissue sampling: If a suspicious lesion is found, a biopsy may also be carried out during the examination.
Therapeutic applications
A rectal examination is not only used for diagnostic purposes. In certain cases, immediate treatment can also be carried out during the examination:
- Ligation of an internal haemorrhoid using a rubber band (after ligation, the haemorrhoid necrotises and falls off)
- Cryotherapy for anal fissures
- Identification and treatment of viral condylomas (pointed warts)
How is a rectal examination carried out?
The examination is not usually painful; rather, it causes a sensation of discomfort or tightness. In cases of inflammation or fissures, the affected area may be more sensitive, so the specialist will apply an anaesthetic cream.
The procedure is as follows:
- The patient is placed in a side-lying or kneeling position.
- The doctor inserts the rigid rectoscope, which has been lubricated with Vaseline, into the anus using the conical tip – this does not cause any injury.
- Air is blown through the instrument to improve the field of view.
- The light is transmitted from the cold light source to the device via a fibre-optic cable.
- The specialist can view the rectal mucosa in real time and, if necessary, take a sample or carry out a procedure straight away.
The examination is usually brief, taking just a few minutes. Serious complications are extremely rare; the most common side effect is minor, short-lived bleeding in cases where the mucous membrane is inflamed or fragile.
Preparing for a rectal examination: what do you need to know?
Preparation for the examination is individual – the specialist determines the exact steps to be taken based on the patient’s symptoms and bowel habits. Generally speaking:
- The day before the examination an early, light dinner recommended (before 18:00).
- After that mild laxative It is recommended to take these (e.g. senna tea, Epsom salts).
- After taking the laxative, you must only drink fluids until the examination.
- If someone finds it difficult to fast, eating a few mouthfuls of food 1–2 hours before the test will not affect the result.
The exact preparation protocol should always be discussed with the treating doctor.
How much does a rectal examination cost at a private clinic?
The cost of a rectal examination in the private sector depends on a number of factors, so it is worth finding out in advance what is included in the fee for the examination.
The main factors affecting the cost of a rectal examination
- Fee for a specialist consultation: The examination is usually preceded by a detailed medical history and a physical examination, for which a separate charge may apply.
- Histological sampling (biopsy): If a suspicious lesion is found during the examination, the sampling and its laboratory processing will be listed as a separate item.
- Immediate therapeutic intervention: In the case of haemorrhoid ligation or the treatment of an anal fissure, the therapeutic procedure also affects the final cost.
- The clinic’s facilities and the specialist’s experience: A modern fleet of equipment and highly qualified specialists mean greater safety, but in some cases also higher prices.
Why is it worth having the test done privately?
In the public healthcare system, waiting times can be weeks or even months. At a private clinic, the examination can usually be carried out within a few days; patients receive discreet, personalised care, and the results are available immediately.
The cost of a rectal examination is negligible compared with the risks posed by an untreated rectal lesion detected at a late stage – whether from a financial or a health perspective.
Why should you choose Endomedix for a gastroenterology consultation?
A rectal examination alone is not always sufficient to establish the full clinical picture. In many cases – particularly if the symptoms are persistent or recurrent, or if the examination reveals any suspicious abnormalities – a more in-depth, comprehensive investigation may also be required.
Endomedix is Hungary’s leading private gastroenterology network, which carries out examinations drawing on clinical expertise gained through more than 18 years’ experience, a team of over 100 specialists and 250,000 satisfied patients. Comprehensive gastroenterology care is available in 10 cities across Hungary – including Budapest, Debrecen, Győr, Miskolc, Szolnok, Veszprém and several other locations.
Important information: at Endomedix clinics, endoscopic examinations are carried out exclusively under deep anaesthesia with propofol, rather than under local anaesthesia. This method guarantees complete pain relief and ensures the examination can be carried out without disruption – the patient feels no discomfort and has no recollection of the procedure upon waking.
If you are experiencing rectal symptoms and would like to find out what tests you actually need, the first step is to consultation with a specialist in gastroenterology, where a specialist will assess your symptoms on a case-by-case basis and determine the most appropriate course of diagnosis.
When is a full colonoscopy required instead of a rectal examination?
A rectal examination examines the last 15–20 cm of the rectum. If the symptoms – such as bleeding or pain – appear to originate from deeper within the bowel, or if risk factors (e.g. being over 50, a family history of bowel cancer) warrant it, the specialist colonoscopy under anaesthesia may propose.
If you are also experiencing upper gastrointestinal symptoms (heartburn, belching, nausea), GASTROSCOPY UNDER ANAESTHESIA it may also be appropriate to carry out this test. If both tests are required, the GASTRIC AND COLONOSCOPY UNDER ANAESTHESIA It can be carried out under a single anaesthetic – thus saving time and, potentially, money.
Don’t put off your check-up – book your appointment today
Rectal symptoms do not go away on their own. The sooner you have a check-up, the sooner you will receive an accurate diagnosis – and the sooner the appropriate treatment can begin.
Endomedix’s specialists can help you determine whether you need a rectal examination or another type of examination. Book an appointment for a specialist gastroenterology consultation, and take the first step towards looking after your health.
Frequently asked questions about the cost and procedure of a rectal examination
Does a rectal examination hurt?
In most cases, the examination is not painful, but rather causes a feeling of discomfort and tightness. Sensitivity may be increased if the mucous membrane is inflamed or damaged, but the specialist will apply an anaesthetic cream to minimise any discomfort.
How long will the test take?
A rectal examination is usually a brief procedure that takes a few minutes. Including the preliminary consultation and the post-examination assessment, the total time spent at the appointment is usually 30–60 minutes.
Do I need to prepare for a rectal examination?
Yes, some minimal preparation is required. A light dinner the day before is recommended, followed by a mild laxative; after taking the laxative, only fluids should be consumed. The exact steps to follow should always be discussed with your doctor, as these may vary from person to person.
What is the difference between a rectal examination and a colonoscopy?
A rectal examination (rectoscopy) examines only the final 15–20 cm of the rectum using a rigid instrument. Colonoscopy, by contrast, examines the entire large bowel – up to 150 cm – using a flexible endoscope fitted with a camera. The two examinations are used for different indications and require different preparations.
When is a full colonoscopy recommended instead of a rectal examination?
If the symptoms suggest a deeper section of the bowel, if the patient is over 50, or if there is a family history of bowel cancer, the specialist is likely to recommend a full colonoscopy. The final decision is always made during the consultation, based on the individual clinical picture.
How can I book an appointment at Endomedix?
At Endomedix clinics, you can call +36 (1) 413-2500 from Monday to Friday between 09:00 and 17:00, or book a consultation online. For details of the options available, please visit the on the gastroenterology specialist consultation page to find out more.
