Understanding
Understanding Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
What
is flexible sigmoidoscopy?
Flexible sigmoidoscopy lets your doctor examine the lining
of the rectum and a portion of the colon (large intestine)
by inserting a flexible tube about the thickness of your
finger into the anus and slowly advancing it into the
rectum and lower part of the colon. If your doctor has
recommended a flexible sigmoidoscopy, this brochure will
give you a basic understanding of the procedure - how it
is performed, how it can help, and what side effects you
might experience. It can't answer all of your questions,
since a lot depends of the individual patient and the
doctor. Please ask your doctor about anything you don't
understand.
What
preparation is required?
Your doctor will tell you what cleansing routine to use.
In general, preparation consists of one or two enemas
prior to the procedure but could include laxatives or
dietary modifications as well. However, in some
circumstances your doctor might advise you to forgo any
special preparation. Because the rectum and lower colon
must be completely empty for the procedure to be accurate,
it's important to follow your doctor's instructions
carefully.
Should
I continue my current medications?
Most medications can be continued as usual. Inform your
doctor about medications that you're taking - particularly
aspirin products or anticoagulants (blood thinners) -- as
well as any allergies you have to medications. Also, tell
your doctor if you require antibiotics prior to dental
procedures, because you might need antibiotics prior to
sigmoidoscopy as well.
What
can I expect during flexible sigmoidoscopy?
Flexible sigmoidoscopy is usually well-tolerated. You
might experience a feeling of pressure, bloating or
cramping during the procedure. You will lie on your side
while your doctor advances the sigmoidoscope through the
rectum and colon. As your doctor withdraws the instrument,
your doctor will carefully examine the lining of the
intestine.
What
if the flexible sigmoidoscopy finds something abnormal?
If your doctor sees an area that needs further evaluation,
your doctor might take a biopsy (sample of the colon
lining) to be analyzed. Biopsies are used to identify many
conditions, and your doctor might order one even if he or
she doesn't suspect cancer.
If
your doctor finds polyps, he or she might take a biopsy of
them as well. Polyps, which are growths from the lining of
the colon, vary in size and types. Polyps known as "hyperplastic"
might not require removal, but benign polyps known as
"adenomas" are potentially precancerous. Your
doctor might ask you to have a colonoscopy (a complete
examination of the colon) to remove any large polyps or
any small adenomas.
What
happens after a flexible sigmoidoscopy?
Your doctor will explain the results to you when the
procedure is done. You might feel bloating or some mild
cramping because of the air that was passed into the colon
during the examination. This will disappear quickly when
you pass gas. You should be able to eat and resume your
normal activities after leaving your doctor's office or
the hospital, assuming you did not receive any sedative
medication.
What
are possible complications of flexible sigmoidoscopy?
Flexible sigmoidoscopy and biopsy are safe when performed
by doctors who are specially trained and experienced in
these endoscopic procedures. Complications are rare, but
it's important for you to recognize early signs of
possible complications. Contact your doctor if you notice
severe abdominal pain, fevers and chills, or rectal
bleeding of more than one-half cup. Note that rectal
bleeding can occur several days after the biopsy.
Back
to Top
