Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

Revising Medical Author: Bhupinder Anand, MD
Revising Medical Editor: Jay W. Marks, MD

• What is flexible sigmoidoscopy?
• What is the preparation for flexible sigmoidoscopy?
• Do I continue my medications for flexible sigmoidoscopy?
• What can I expect during flexible sigmoidoscopy?
• What if something abnormal is found during flexible sigmoidoscopy?
• What happens after the flexible sigmoidoscopy?
• What are the complications of flexible sigmoidoscopy?
• Conclusions

What is flexible sigmoidoscopy?

Flexible sigmoidoscopy is a procedure that allows your doctor to examine the rectum and the lower (sigmoid) colon. The flexible sigmoidoscope is a flexible tube 60 cm long and about the thickness of your little finger. It is inserted gently into the anus and advanced slowly into the rectum and the lower colon. It is an accurate and simple method of investigating the cause of rectal bleeding, change in bowel habit, and rectal symptoms such as pain and diarrhea. Flexible sigmoidoscopy also is a part of colon screening and surveillance for colon cancer. For more, please read the Colon Screening and Surveillance article.

What is the preparation for flexible sigmoidoscopy?

In order to obtain accurate results, the rectum and the lower colon must be completely clean of stool. Your doctor will give you detailed instructions on how to cleanse your colon. In general, this requires the use of one or two enemas prior to the procedure and may also call for a laxative and some dietary modifications. Under special circumstances, such as the presence of significant diarrhea, the preparation may be waived.

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