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What is Sigmoidoscopy?
During the test, you are positioned on your left side with your knees drawn up toward your chest. A gastroenterologist or surgeon will perform the test. First, the doctor does a digital rectal exam by gently inserting a gloved and lubricated finger into the rectum to check for blockage and to dilate (gently enlarge) the anus.
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Also known as proctoscopy, Proctosigmoidoscopy, Sigmoidoscopies, Proctosigmoidoscopies, Sigmoidoscopic Surgery, Sigmoidoscopic Surgical Procedures, Sigmoidoscopic Surgical Procedure, Sigmoidoscopic Surgeries
Sigmoidoscopy information from trusted sources:
Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is an internal examination of the lower large bowel (colon), using an instrument called a sigmoidoscope. Read more on
www.nlm.nih.gov
Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is a procedure in which a doctor looks in your large intestine. A length of flexible tube connected to a fiberoptic camera is used. A light is transmitted through the scope to the tip by a bundle of light fibers. The doctor uses this light to look at your intestine through an eyepiece or video screen. Your doctor may do this very safe procedure for several reasons. Sigmoidoscopy is the best way to diagnose colon cancerthe second most common cause of cancer death in the United States. This procedure may also be used to help investigate problems such as bleeding, abdominal pain, or diarrhea. Three findings are possible from this procedure. You are healthy, and no other studies are needed. (Even though the sigmoidoscopy is the most important technique in the evaluation of colon cancer, a very small percentage of people with normal sigmoidoscopy findings may later be found to have colon cancer.) A diagnosis of your particular disease is made. You may need additional testing, consultation, therapy, or follow-up. Several leading medical groups recommend routine screening of men and women aged 50 years and older for colon cancer and benign (harmless) polyps every 3-5 years. Younger people may require this procedure if they have close relatives with colon cancer. A similar screening procedure is known as a colonoscopy. The basic difference is that the tube goes farther up the colon with a colonoscopy. Read more on
www.emedicinehealth.com
flexible sigmoidoscopy
A flexible sigmoidoscopy is an exam used to evaluate the lower part of the large intestine (colon). Read more on
www.mayoclinic.com
Sigmoidoscopy - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Sigmoidoscopy From Greek doscopy, to look inside, is the minimally invasive medical examination of the large intestine from the rectum through the last part ... Read more on
en.wikipedia.org
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
Provides general information about flexible sigmoidoscopy. Describes the purpose of the test, how patients can prepare for it, and what patients can expect ... Read more on
digestive.niddk.nih.gov
Frequently Asked Questions About Colonoscopy and Sigmoidoscopy
Aug 21, 2009 ... Colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy are screening exams for colorectal cancer. Here are some answers to questions you might have about these ... Read more on
www.cancer.org
Sigmoidoscopy (Anoscopy, Proctoscopy)
Apr 30, 2009 ... Anoscopy, proctoscopy, and sigmoidoscopy tests allow your health professional to look at the inner lining of your anus, rectum, ... Read more on
www.webmd.com
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Procedure Information by MedicineNet.com
Mar 11, 2011 ... Read about flexible sigmoidoscopy procedure used to examine the lower portion of the colon and rectum. It may be used to investigate the ... Read more on
www.medicinenet.com
ASGE: Understanding Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
Flexible sigmoidoscopy lets your doctor examine the lining of the rectum and a ... You will lie on your side while your doctor advances the sigmoidoscope ... Read more on
www.asge.org
Patient Information for Flexible Sigmoidoscopy from SAGES ...
Information from SAGES for patients eligible for flexible sigmoidoscopy. Read more on
www.sages.org
Contents
How the Test Will Feel
There will be pressure when the scope or fingers are introduced into your rectum. There may be a feeling of the need to have a bowel movement during the procedure. There may be some bloating or cramping caused by the air or by stretching of the bowel by the sigmoidoscope. Biopsies cause no discomfort.
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www.nlm.nih.gov
How to Prepare for the Test
Indications
This test can help diagnose: Bowel obstruction ; Causes of diarrhea ; Colon polyps; Diverticulosis (the presence of abnormal pouches on the lining of the intestines); Inflammatory bowel disease; Determine the cause of blood, mucus, or pus in the stool; Confirm findings of another test or x-rays; Take a biopsy of a growth; To screen for colorectal cancer
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www.nlm.nih.gov
Normal Results
Normal findings show that the lining of the sigmoid colon, rectal mucosa, rectum, and anus appear normal in color, texture, and size.
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www.nlm.nih.gov
Risks
There is a slight risk of bowel perforation (tearing a hole) and bleeding at the biopsy sites (the overall risk is approximately 1 in 1,000).
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www.nlm.nih.gov
What Abnormal Results Mean
Abnormal results can indicate: Anal fissures ; Anorectal abscess ; Bowel obstruction; Cancer ; Colorectal polyps ; Diverticulosis; Hemorrhoids ; Inflammatory bowel disease; Inflammation or infection (proctitis)
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www.nlm.nih.gov