First, the health care provider performs a digital rectal exam by inserting a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to determine if anything will block the insertion of the scope.

He or she then inserts a lubricated metal or plastic anoscope a few inches into the rectum. This enlarges the rectum to allow the health care provider to view the entire anal canal using a light. A specimen for biopsy can be taken if needed. As the scope is slowly removed, the lining of the anal canal is carefully inspected.

You will be asked to defecate to clear your rectum of stool before the procedure. A laxative, enema, or other preparation may be administered to help clear your rectum.

Infants and children:

A child's age and experience determine which steps are appropriate to help prepare him or her for this procedure. For specific recommendations, refer to the following topics:

• Infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
• Toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
• Preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
• Schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
• Adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

There will be some pressure during the procedure, and you may feel the need to defecate. If biopsies are taken, you may feel a pinch.

This test may be used to determine whether you have hemorrhoids, anal polyps, tumors, inflammation, fissures, or infection.

The anal canal appears normal in size, color, and tone. There is no evidence of bleeding, polyps, hemorrhoids, or other abnormal tissue.

Abnormal results may indicate hemorrhoids, an abscess, inflammation, infection, fissures, tumors, or polyps (benign or malignant).

There are minimal risks for simple anoscopy. If a biopsy is needed, there is a limited risk of bleeding and mild pain.