Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

A flexible sigmoidoscopy is an examination used to evaluate

1. The lower part of the large intestine (colon).
2. During a flexible sigmoidoscopy exam, a thin, flexible tube (sigmoidoscope) is inserted into the rectum

Flexible Sigmoidoscopy is advantageous as it helps in -

1. Investigate intestinal signs and symptoms. A flexible sigmoidoscopy exam can help your doctor explore possible causes of abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, chronic diarrhea and other intestinal problems.
2. Screen for colon cancer.

Flexible sigmoidoscopy is an easy procedure and causes minimum discomfort. Your doctor might suggest the procedure to you for: 

1.  Identification of intestinal symptoms 
2. Identification of colon and rectum cancer 
3.  Identification of the cause for: 
4.  Diarrhoea 
5.  Constipation 
6. Abdominal pain 
7.  Rectal bleeding 
8.  Variation in bowel habits 
9.  Diagnosing inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) 
10.  Diagnosing rectal ulcers and colon polyps 

Procedure

1. The physician can see the inside of the rectum, sigmoid colon, as well as most of the descending colon with the help of a microscopic recording device at the tube's tip.  
2. During a flexible sigmoidoscopy exam, tissue samples (biopsies) can be extracted via scope if required. 
3. The doctor cannot see the whole colon with flexible sigmoidoscopy. 
4. As a result, flexible sigmoidoscopy alone is unable to detect cancer or small aggregates of cells that may grow into cancer (polyps) in the colon. 

What to expect before the surgery?

1. You must inform your doctor about the following: 
2.  If you're expecting 
3.  If you have any other disease- diabetes mellitus, lung disease, heart disease 
4. If you're allergic to any medication 
5. If you are on any regular medications, your doctor might adjust them accordingly. 
6. Your doctor will suggest you a clear liquid diet or overnight fasting. 
7. Your doctor might ask you to have a laxative either in a pill or liquid form. 

What to expect on the day of surgery?

1. To ensure a safe and successful procedure: 
2. The healthcare team will ensure that your colon is entirely empty, or else it might create an obstruction. 
3. An enema kit that aids in the emptying of the colon will be provided to you approximately two hours before the procedure. 

What to expect during the surgery?

1. The doctor will ask you to lie down on your left side and will perform the following steps: 
2. A narrow, lubricated sigmoidoscope is inserted inside the lower intestine via the rectum. 
3. Pumps air into the large intestine through the scope for a clearer look. 
4. The doctor analysis the visuals from inside the rectum 
5. If required, your doctor might insert small devices to eliminate tissue samples or polyps to biopsy. 
6. The scope is then taken out. 

After the exam

1. You may have mild abdominal discomfort. 
2. You may feel bloated or pass gas for a few hours as you clear the air from your colon.
3. Walking may help relieve any discomfort.
4. You should be able to return to your usual diet and activities right away.
5. You may also notice a small amount of blood with your first bowel movement after the exam, which is  very  usually after the procedure

When to  Consult a doctor

You must visit your doctor if: 

1. You have severe abdominal pain 
2. You have non-stop rectal bleeding  
3. Do You have any sign of infection 
4.  You have persistent abdominal pain 
5. You feel severe discomfort after the test 
6.  You feel dizzy