What is "anoscopy"

n. An examination using a small, rigid, tubular instrument called an anoscope which is inserted into the anal canal.

An anoscopy is an examination using a small, rigid, tubular instrument called an anoscope (also called an anal speculum). This is inserted a few inches into the anus in order to evaluate problems of the anal canal. Anoscopy is used to diagnose hemorrhoids, anal fissures (tears in the lining of the anus), and some cancers.