What is a flexible sigmoidoscopy?
A flexible sigmoidoscopy is a procedure that provides a better view of the lower portion of the colon (sigmoid) and the rectum. Your doctor will insert a sigmoidoscope into the rectum during this procedure. The sigmoidoscope is a skinny and flexible tube with a camera attached to help doctors spot any abnormalities and take tissue samples (if needed) for a biopsy.
Who needs a flexible sigmoidoscopy?
A doctor may require you to have a sigmoidoscopy if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- Rectal bleeding
- Abdominal pain
- Chronic diarrhea
Additionally, providers will order a sigmoidoscopy to:
- Screen for colon cancer
- Screen for colon polyps or rectal ulcers
- Diagnose inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Diagnose diverticulitis
- Diagnose ulcerative colitis
- Diagnose Crohn’s disease
Colonoscopy vs Sigmoidoscopy
A colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy both screen for colon cancer, however, the sigmoidoscopy is not as invasive. A colonoscopy will examine the entire large intestine while the sigmoidoscopy only examines the lower portion of the colon.
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Prep
Similar to a colonoscopy, the colon needs to be empty and clean for the sigmoidoscopy. To prep for a flexible sigmoidoscopy, your doctor will likely recommend the following tasks:
- Adjust medications
- Clear liquid diet for 24 hours before the procedure
- Laxative to empty the bowels
- Over-the-counter enema kit to empty bowels hours before the exam
Be sure to talk with your doctor before starting any prep.
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Procedure Expectations
A sigmoidoscopy is an outpatient procedure that is not as extensive as a colonoscopy, so anesthesia is not necessary. A mild sedative may be provided to help relax. This procedure is typically done within 30 minutes, and you will be home within the same day. Here is what you can expect when going into the exam room:
- You will be lying on your left side in the fetal position.
- A lubricated sigmoidoscope is inserted into the rectum.
- Air is pumped through the sigmoidoscope to provide a better view of the lower large intestine. Stomach cramps are possible during this time.
- Images and videos are captured from the scope’s camera.
- Tissue samples and polyps (if applicable) are gathered for testing.
- Scope is removed.
If your doctor finds any polyps during the sigmoidoscopy you may be asked to come back for a full colonoscopy to look for additional polyps higher in the colon.
It is normal to have stomach cramps, gas and bloating following the exam. If any tissue or polyps are removed, there could be rectal bleeding. If rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, or a fever of 100 F persists, speak with your doctor or provider immediately. We always recommend following your doctor’s post-op instructions for the best recovery.