It’s understandable why some might jokingly ask, “What Is A Butt Doctor Called?” The field dealing with anal and rectal health isn’t always the easiest to discuss. However, having a bit of humor can be helpful, especially for the specialists who dedicate their careers to this important area of medicine. These doctors, often referred to informally as “butt doctors,” have a specific and respected medical title: proctologist.
So, what exactly is a proctologist? A proctologist is a surgeon who has undergone specialized residency training focusing solely on proctology, also known as proctologic surgery. These are highly skilled surgeons with in-depth expertise in diagnosing and treating a wide array of conditions affecting the anal and rectal areas. This includes diseases of the lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract, and their approach encompasses both surgical and non-surgical methods. Furthermore, proctologists are experts in performing colonoscopies, a crucial procedure for examining the colon (large intestine) and the ileum, the final section of the small intestine.
It’s important to distinguish proctologists from other medical professionals who also deal with the digestive system. You might have heard of colorectal surgeons and gastroenterologists, but they are not the same as proctologists. Colorectal surgeons initially train for five years in general surgery followed by an additional year of specialized fellowship in colon and rectal surgery. Gastroenterologists, on the other hand, complete three years of internal medicine residency and then three more years in a gastroenterology fellowship. While gastroenterologists are proficient in performing endoscopies of both the upper and lower GI tracts, they are not surgeons. This means gastroenterologists do not perform surgeries for conditions like hemorrhoids, anal fissures, anal skin tags, or anal fistulas.
Proctologists stand out as the specialists uniquely trained to both diagnose and surgically treat these specific lower gastrointestinal conditions. Therefore, if you are experiencing anal or rectal pain, or any discomfort in this area, it’s essential not to delay seeking professional help. Contacting a proctologist is the most direct route to expert diagnosis and comprehensive care. If you are in the Los Angeles or Orange County area, the Proctology Institute offers consultations and appointments at their Beverly Hills, Newport Beach, and Huntington Beach locations. Don’t hesitate to take care of your health and get the answers and treatment you need.
