Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

A flexible sigmoidoscopy is a medical procedure used to examine the lower part of the colon and rectum for abnormalities, such as polyps, cancer, and inflammation.

What is the purpose of a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy?

The main purposes of a flexible sigmoidoscopy are:

• To screen for colorectal cancer and precancerous polyps
• To investigate symptoms such as rectal bleeding, diarrhea, or abdominal pain
• To monitor the progression of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• To remove polyps or take tissue samples for biopsy

How is a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy performed?

The procedure involves:

1. Preparation: The patient is asked to follow a bowel prep diet and may be given a laxative to clear the colon of stool.
2. Sedation: The patient may be given sedation to relax during the procedure.
3. Insertion of the sigmoidoscope: A flexible tube with a camera and light on the end (sigmoidoscope) is inserted into the rectum through the anus.
4. Examination: The doctor uses the sigmoidoscope to visually examine the lower part of the colon and rectum, looking for abnormalities.
5. Removal of polyps or tissue sampling: If necessary, the doctor may remove polyps or take tissue samples for biopsy using specialized instruments passed through the sigmoidoscope.

Risks and complications

While generally a safe procedure, flexible sigmoidoscopy carries some risks and potential complications, including:

• Bleeding or perforation of the colon
• Infection
• Reaction to sedation
• Bowel obstruction

Preparation for a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

To prepare for a flexible sigmoidoscopy, patients should:

• Follow a bowel prep diet as instructed by their doctor
• Avoid eating solid foods for a certain period before the procedure
• Take laxatives or other medications as prescribed to clear the colon of stool
• Inform their doctor about any medications they are taking, including blood thinners and diabetes medications

After the procedure

After a flexible sigmoidoscopy, patients may experience:

• Mild discomfort or cramping in the abdomen
• Bloating or gas
• A feeling of being bloated or having gas
• Some bleeding or discharge from the rectum

Patients should follow their doctor's instructions for recovery and contact them if they experience any severe symptoms, such as heavy bleeding, severe abdominal pain, or difficulty breathing.

Alternatives to Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

Other screening tests for colorectal cancer include:

• Colonoscopy: A more comprehensive examination of the entire colon
• Virtual colonoscopy (CT colonography): A non-invasive test using CT scans to visualize the colon
• Fecal occult blood tests (FOBTs): Tests that detect hidden blood in stool samples

Frequency of Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

The frequency of flexible sigmoidoscopy depends on individual risk factors and medical history. Generally, the American Cancer Society recommends:

• People with average risk: Screening every 5 years starting at age 45
• People with increased risk (family history, previous polyps or cancer): More frequent screening, as determined by their doctor