Flexible sigmoidoscopy

Flexible sigmoidoscopy is a procedure used to see inside the sigmoid colon and rectum. Flexible sigmoidoscopy can investigate the possible cause of rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, and colon cancer, and can help find polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, diverticulosis, and early signs of cancer in the descending colon and rectum.

Procedure

A flexible sigmoidoscopy is performed by a gastroenterologist, a doctor who specializes in the digestive system. During the procedure, the patient lies on his or her left side on the examining table. The doctor inserts a short, flexible, lighted tube into the rectum and slowly guides it into the sigmoid colon. This tube is called a sigmoidoscope. The scope transmits an image of the inside of the rectum and sigmoid colon, so the doctor can carefully examine the lining of these organs. The scope also blows air into these organs, which inflates them and helps the doctor see better.

Preparation

Before a flexible sigmoidoscopy, the patient needs to clean out (empty) the colon. This might be done one or more days before the procedure and can include a liquid diet, enemas, and laxatives. The doctor will give the patient specific instructions. A clean colon gives the doctor a better view of the colon and rectum.

Risks

Flexible sigmoidoscopy is a safe procedure and complications are rare. However, it's important to recognize early signs of possible complications. Contact your doctor if you have severe abdominal pain, fever and chills, or rectal bleeding of more than half a cup. Note that bleeding can occur several days after the procedure.

After the Procedure

After the procedure, the doctor will explain the results to the patient. If a biopsy was performed or a polyp was removed, the doctor will discuss what will be done with the tissue sample. The patient might experience bloating or gas cramps and will need to pass the air that was pumped into the colon and rectum during the procedure. Walking might help relieve any discomfort.

Flexible sigmoidoscopy Resources
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