What is the purpose of a flexible sigmoidoscopy?
Flexible sigmoidoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure to evaluate the lower 1/3 of the large intestine (colon). Compared to a colonoscopy, which evaluates the health of the entire colon, flexible sigmoidoscopy is a more limited examination, taking less time and less preparation. It is useful for evaluating minor anal and rectal symptoms, such as hemorrhoidal bleeding and limited ulcerative colitis.
How is a flexible sigmoidoscopy performed?
An intravenous line will be placed in your arm, through which the anesthesiologist will administer gentle sedation, allowing you to sleep the entire time and have no discomfort.
You will lay on your left side while the gastroenterologist inserts the colonoscope through your anus to examine the tissues lining the sigmoid colon and rectum while viewing a video monitor and capturing images.
If polyps or abnormal tissue are found, they may be removed or biopsied during the procedure.
Most flexible sigmoidoscopies take 5-10 minutes.
What preparation is required for flexible sigmoidoscopy?
Preparation for a flexible sigmoidoscopy involves a gentle enema cleanse (done at home by the patient) and a period of fasting. You will be given detailed dietary instructions by your doctor.
What happens following the flexible sigmoidoscopy?
You’ll spend 20-30 minutes in a recovery area while the sedation wears off, and you can eat immediately.
The gastroenterologist will speak with you before you go home.
If any biopsies were taken, those will come back in a few days.
Because of the anesthesia, you will need someone to escort you home. You should plan to take it easy the rest of the day, and you cannot drive a car following the procedure until the next day.