Proctology

Expert management of haemorrhoids, fissures, fistulas, anal pain and other anorectal conditions

Proctology is the branch of medicine focused on conditions affecting the anus and rectum. While these conditions are common, they can significantly impact comfort, confidence, daily activities, and quality of life.

Dr Matt Marino provides specialist assessment and treatment for a wide range of anorectal conditions, with a focus on preserving function, minimising scarring, and reducing recovery time wherever possible. Many treatments can be performed using minimally invasive or incision-free techniques, avoiding the need for more extensive surgery.

If you would like more information, please call 0493 318 188.

Proctology conditions and treatments

Haemorrhoids

Haemorrhoids are enlarged blood vessels within the anal canal that can cause bleeding, discomfort, itching, or prolapse. Treatment ranges from dietary advice and banding procedures through to minimally invasive and surgical options where required.

Anal skin tags

Anal skin tags are common benign growths that may cause discomfort, hygiene difficulties, or cosmetic and sexual concerns. Most skin tags can be removed safely in the rooms.

Anal fissures

Anal fissures are small tears in the lining of the anus that can cause severe pain and bleeding during bowel movements. Importantly, they can also severely affect sexual function. Treatment focuses on relieving muscle spasm, promoting healing, and preventing recurrence.

Anal warts

Anal warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can occur around or inside the anus. Treatment aims to remove visible lesions, relieve symptoms, and assess for any associated pre-cancerous changes.

Anal fistulas

An anal fistula is an abnormal tunnel that develops between the anal canal and the skin around the anus, often following an abscess. Modern sphincter-preserving treatments, including laser therapy and VAAFT, may be suitable for selected patients.

Anal abscesses

An anal abscess is a painful infection that causes a collection of pus near the anus. Prompt treatment is important to relieve symptoms and reduce the risk of ongoing infection or fistula formation.

Not sure what's causing your symptoms?

Bleeding, pain, lumps, itching, discharge, and changes in bowel function can all have a range of causes. Whilst these are most frequently benign, more serious conditions can also cause these symptoms, especially if persistent.

Assessment by a specialist can help identify the underlying problem and determine the most appropriate treatment options.

Why choose Dr Matt Marino

Choosing a surgeon is an important decision. Dr Matt Marino combines advanced colorectal training, modern surgical techniques, and a patient-centred approach to deliver personalised care. From consultation through to recovery, you can expect clear communication, continuity of care, accessibility and treatment tailored to your individual needs.

  • Advanced colorectal fellowships completed in Australia and the United Kingdom, including Oxford and Leeds

  • Expertise in robotic, laparoscopic (keyhole), and open surgical techniques

  • Special interest in colorectal cancer management and anal cancer prevention

  • Personalised treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs and goals

  • Continuity of care from consultation through to recovery and follow-up

  • Inclusive, respectful, and patient-centred approach to care

Advanced treatment options and techniques

Dr Marino offers a range of modern treatment options designed to minimise pain, preserve function, and support recovery, including:

  • High-resolution anoscopy (HRA)

  • Laser treatment for selected anal fistulas

  • VAAFT (Video Assisted Anal Fistula Treatment)

  • Rubber band ligation of haemorrhoids

  • Botox for anal fissures

  • HALO / THD haemorrhoid procedures

For many patients, anorectal conditions can affect confidence, intimacy, and sexual well-being.

Dr Marino has a particular interest in conditions affecting gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men, as well as patients concerned about how treatment may impact anal function. Where appropriate, treatment is aimed at being as minimally invasive as possible to prioritise healing, function, scarring, and return to sexual activity.

Looking for more information?

Dr Marino regularly publishes patient education articles covering issues such as sexual wellbeing, anorectal conditions, anal cancer prevention and treatment options.

Sexual wellbeing matters

Frequently Asked Questions

  • No. Some anorectal conditions can be managed without surgery, particularly when diagnosed early.

    Treatment may include dietary changes, medications, topical therapies, in-clinic procedures, or minimally invasive techniques. Surgery is only recommended when it is likely to provide a meaningful benefit or when less invasive treatments have been unsuccessful.

  • You should consider specialist assessment if your symptoms are persistent, recurring, worsening, or affecting your quality of life. Symptoms such as rectal bleeding, pain, lumps, itching, discharge, or changes in bowel function can have a variety of causes and should not be automatically assumed to be haemorrhoids.

    Early assessment can help identify the underlying cause and ensure appropriate treatment.

  • For some patients, anorectal conditions can noticeably affect sexual health and well‑being, especially in gay and bisexual patients. In these patients, we prioritise conservative treatments or the least invasive surgery possible. Anal scarring may subtly change the appearance of the anus and, rarely, cause narrowing. When procedures that produce scars are unavoidable, we aim to minimise tissue damage and choose the least invasive option.

  • Preserving continence and normal bowel function is a key consideration when planning treatment.

    Where possible, Dr Marino uses sphincter-preserving and minimally invasive techniques designed to achieve healing while protecting bowel control and long-term function

  • Yes. Conditions such as fissures, fistulas, scarring, muscle spasm, and chronic pain can affect confidence, intimacy, and sexual function. Some patients have real difficulty engaging in receptive anal intercourse, and this can be assessed in the rooms using anal manometry.

    Dr Marino has a particular interest in managing conditions that impact sexual wellbeing and incorporates these considerations into treatment planning where relevant.

  • Yes. Some treatments can be performed in the clinic, while others may require day surgery or hospital-based procedures.

    During your consultation, Dr Marino will discuss the most appropriate treatment approach for your condition and whether it can be managed in the clinic or requires surgery.

Get in touch

If you think you may benefit from an in-rooms procedure, please speak with your GP to obtain a referral. Alternatively, contact the rooms directly to arrange an appointment using the enquiry form or call directly on 0493 318 188.

Location

Suite 9.3, Level 9
East Wing Tower
Epworth Eastern
25 Nelson Road, Box Hill, 3128