An exam known as a flexible sigmoidoscopy is used to inspect the large intestine (colon). A sigmoidoscope (thin, flexible tube) is inserted into the rectum during a flexible sigmoidoscopy.

Just under the last 2 feet (about 50 centimeters) of the large intestine, the doctor can see the inside of the rectum, the sigmoid colon, and most of the descending colon with a tiny video camera on the tip of the tube. It is possible to take biopsies through the scope during a flexible sigmoidoscopy examination if necessary.

Doctors cannot see the entire colon with flexible sigmoidoscopy. Due to these limitations, flexible sigmoidoscopy alone can’t detect cancer or polyps further into the colon that could turn into cancer.

Colorectal cancer screening is performed through sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy. There is a difference between the two tests in the part of the colon which the doctor is able to view. Since sigmoidoscopies only examine the lower portion of your colon, they are less invasive. In a colonoscopy, the large intestine is examined from top to bottom.

During your sigmoidoscopy, your doctor may find polyps, which will likely require a colonoscopy. There is a good chance that you have polyps elsewhere if you have them in the lower colon. Cancerous polyps can be removed by your doctor before they become cancerous.

On the exam table, you will lie on your left side wearing a gown with your knees drawn toward your abdomen. A sigmoidoscope will be inserted into your rectum by the doctor.

An air tube and a light are contained within the sigmoidoscope, which allows the doctor to put air into your colon. Having air in the colon expands it, giving you a better view of the colon lining. Whenever the scope is moved or air is introduced, you may experience abdominal cramps and the urge to move your bowels.

A tiny video camera is also attached to the tip of the sigmoidoscope. In order to examine the inside of your colon, the doctor uses an external monitor to send images to. It is also possible to take tissue samples using instruments inserted through the scope.

It typically takes about 15 minutes to perform a flexible sigmoidoscopy exam. If biopsies are taken, the process may take slightly longer. There is usually no need for sedation or pain medication. Polyps are often found in the colon, and your doctor may recommend a full colonoscopy to check the entire colon for other polyps.

You will need to empty your colon before a flexible sigmoidoscopy exam. During the examination, any residue in the colon may obstruct the view of the colon and rectum.

The day before an exam, your doctor may ask you not to eat anything. It is recommended to drink only clear liquids – plain water, broth, carbonated beverages, and tea and coffee without milk or cream. It is possible that you will be asked not to eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your exam.

A laxative can either be a pill or a liquid, depending on your doctor’s recommendation.

A few hours before the exam, you will need to empty your colon with an over-the-counter enema kit. It is possible that you will be asked to take two enemas.

Make sure your doctor knows about all your medications at least a week before your exam, especially if you have diabetes, take iron-containing medications, or take aspirin or other blood thinners. The dosage may need to be adjusted or the medication may need to be temporarily stopped.

Advanced Gastroenterology offers flexible sigmoidoscopy. We serve patients from Orlando FL, Kissimmee FL, St. Cloud FL, Meadow Woods FL, Celebration FL, Williamsburg FL, Buenaventura Lakes FL, and Hunters Creek FL.