Hemorrhoids Digital Rectum Examination (DRE)

Digital Rectal Exam: Some people when they hear a digital rectum examination believe that this is a digital camera or scan which will examine the anal area. However this is not the case. The "Digit" being referred to in the case of a digital rectal exam is a finger.

In a Digital Rectum Examination the doctor will insert a gloved finger into the rectum. The gloved finger is usually lubricated with special non-irritating lubricants.  During this examination a doctor may be able to identify any swollen areas, lumps or growths. This procedure may help in identifying external hemorrhoids. Doctors may not be able to feel any internal hemorrhoids during this procedure.

This examination is done in different positions for men and women. In the case of men the patient is standing bending forward or lying on one side with the knees held close to the chest. In the case of women the examination is done while she is lying on her back with her knees bent and feet raised in air.

The Digital Rectal Examination is usually done as a  first step examination before an anoscopy is recommended.