“Can proctologists perform surgery?”

Technically yes Proctology was the 1953 description of colon and rectal surgery. Achieved after completion of a 5 yr general surgery residency followed by a preceptorship ( now called fellowship) in colorectal surgery. However, in the 70s a few proctology residency started, these are 1 yr of training after a 1 yr residency, with no certification. These are far and few in between and generally frowned upon. Hope this helps Cjhirschmd

Proctologists are synonymous with colon and rectal surgeons, so they can remove polyps via colonoscopy or surgery.

Proctologists by training can only operate on the anus. Colon and rectal surgeons can operate in the abdominal and remove polyps. Polyps can be removed endoscopically as well.