Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
The colon, or large intestine, is divided into four sections, and each section has their own responsibilities to keep waste moving through you properly. The lower part is known as the sigmoid colon. It’s about 16 inches long and is where the body stores and pushes feces out.
When you start to have digestive problems in the lower part of the colon, it can lead to pain, blood in your stool or colorectal cancer.
What is a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy?
A flexible sigmoidoscopy allows our gastroenterologists to view the sigmoid colon. This procedure can take 15-30 minutes and requires a flexible tube about the size of your index finger to be inserted into the anus, where it is slowly pushed to the lower part of the colon.
Benefits of a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
The flexible sigmoidoscopy procedure can diagnose the cause of your:
- Abnormal growths (polyps)
- Belly pain
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Rectal bleeding
It can also detect colon or rectal diseases, like colorectal cancer, and allows your care team to provide the best treatment plan.
When Would I Need a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy?
One of our providers may recommend a flexible sigmoidoscopy to determine if you have:
- Inflammation
- Sores (ulcers)
- Tumors
- Pouches along the colon wall
It can also diagnose why you might be experiencing hemorrhoids, which are swollen veins in your rectum and anus.
Know Before You Go
When you are scheduled for a flexible sigmoidoscopy, one of our digestive health specialists will provide you with instructions on how to prepare for the procedure.
Before the Procedure
The day of your flexible sigmoidoscopy, you are allowed to eat a light breakfast/lunch, but you must completely empty your bowls at home before your appointment.
Your specialists will also instruct you to give yourself two fleet enemas rectally, TWO HOURS BEFORE your appointment time. In order to do this, give yourself one enema and hold it for 10 minutes. wait 30 minutes and repeat the process with the second enema.
After the Procedure
After your procedure, you can return to normal activities when you leave the hospital. You may experience mild cramping or a bloating sensation. This will disappear quickly when you pass gas.
