WebMD
Font Size
A
A
A

Digital rectal examination

Image copyright 2000 by Nucleus Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. http://www.nucleusinc.com

A digital (finger) rectal examination checks for problems in organs or other structures in the pelvis and lower abdomen. During a digital rectal examination, your doctor puts a lubricated, gloved finger of one hand into the rectum and may use the other hand to press on the lower abdomen or pelvic area.

Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD
- Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Jerome B. Simon, MD, FRCPC, FACP
- Gastroenterology
Last Updated November 28, 2006

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: November 28, 2006
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
@ 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.