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Sigmoidoscopy is an internal examination of the lower large bowel (colon) and rectum, using an instrument called a sigmoidoscope.
Alternative NamesProctoscopy; Proctosigmoidoscopy; Rigid sigmoidoscopy
How the test is performedDuring the test, you are positioned on your left side with your knees drawn up toward your chest. A gastroenterologist or surgeon will perform the test. First, the doctor does a digital rectal exam by gently inserting a gloved and lubricated finger into the rectum to check for blockage and to dilate (gently enlarge) the anus.
Next, the sigmoidoscope -- a hollow tube through which the doctor can see-- is inserted into the rectum. Air is introduced into the colon to expand the area and help the doctor see better. The air may cause the urge to have a bowel movement.
The sigmoidoscope is advanced, usually as far up as the sigmoid colon or descending colon. Then, as the scope is slowly removed, the lining of the bowel is carefully examined. The hollow channel in the center of the scope allows for the passage of forceps for taking biopsies or for other instruments for therapy.
Sigmoidoscopy may be done using a rigid or flexible scope. Ask your doctor which procedure you are having.
How to prepare for the testYou must sign an informed consent form. You will wear a hospital gown.
On the morning of the procedure, eat a light breakfast and then use a cleansing enema about 1 hour before the sigmoidoscopy.
Infants and children:
The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age, previous experiences, and level of trust. For general information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics:
- Infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
- Toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
- Preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
- Schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
- Adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)
There will be pressure when the scope or fingers are introduced into your rectum. There may be a feeling of the need to have a bowel movement during the procedure. There may be some bloating or cramping caused by the air or by stretching of the bowel by the sigmoidoscope. Biopsies cause no discomfort.
After the test, you will expel the air that was introduced.
Why the test is performedThis test can help diagnose:
- Bowel obstruction
- Causes of diarrhea
- Colon polyps
- Diverticulosis (the presence of abnormal pouches on the lining of the intestines)
- Inflammatory bowel disease
This test can also be used to:
- Determine the cause of blood, mucus, or pus in the stool
- Confirm findings of another test or x-rays
- Take a biopsy of a growth
- To screen for colorectal cancer
Normal findings show that the lining of the sigmoid colon, rectal mucosa, rectum, and anus appear normal in color, texture, and size.
What abnormal results meanAbnormal results can indicate:
- Anal fissures
- Anorectal abscess
- Bowel obstruction
- Cancer
- Colorectal polyps
- Diverticulosis
- Hemorrhoids
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Inflammation or infection (proctitis)
There is a slight risk of bowel perforation (tearing a hole) and bleeding at the biopsy sites (the overall risk is approximately 1 in 1,000).
ReferencesU.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Screening for colorectal cancer: U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommendation statement. Ann Intern Med. 2008 Nov 4;149(9):627-37.
Weinberg DS. In the clinic. Colorectal cancer screening. Ann Intern Med. 2008 Feb 5;148(3):ITC2-1-ITC2-16.
What else can I help you with?
Who performs sigmoidoscopy?
A gastroenterologist
Why is a sigmoidoscopy preferred?
However, compared with sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy is a longer process, causes more discomfort, and is more costly.
Can you have a sigmoidoscopy with a period?
Yes, you can have a sigmoidoscopy while on your period. Menstruation does not typically interfere with the procedure or the ability of the healthcare provider to perform it effectively. However, it is advisable to inform the healthcare provider performing the sigmoidoscopy if you are menstruating, as they may take certain precautions or provide additional guidance to ensure the procedure goes smoothly.
What age should a flexible sigmoidoscopy be done at?
50
Which part of the body is being examined during sigmoidoscopy?
Sigmoidoscopy is the examination of the large intestine starting from your rectum all the way to your colon. The procedure is what they class as minimally invasive.
What complications does sigmoidoscopy have?
The most serious complication of sigmoidoscopy is bowel perforation (tear). This complication is very rare, however, occurring only about once in every 7,500 procedures.
Why is sigmoidoscopy used?
Sigmoidoscopy is used most often in screening for colorectal cancer or to determine the cause of rectal bleeding. It is also used for the diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease and other benign diseases of the lower intestine.
When does a cancer sigmoidoscopy have abnormal results?
For a cancer screening sigmoidoscopy, an abnormal result involves one or more noncancerous or precancerous polyps or tumors. Patients showing polyps have an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer in the future.
Who pays for a sigmoidoscopy?
Private insurance plans often cover the cost of sigmoidoscopy for screening in healthy individuals over 50, or for diagnostic purposes. Medicare covers the cost for diagnostic exams, and may cover the costs for screening exams.
Why knee-chest position in sigmoidoscopy?
knee-chest position / jack-knife position. :)
Why does a sigmoidoscopy not work?
exam is not always adequate. A 2004 study reported that among older patients and women, sigmoidoscopy is not always effective, particularly because insertion depth is not adequate. For unknown reasons, this is almost twice as true for women as for men
What happens in a sigmoidoscopy?
A sigmoidoscopy is a procedure where a doctor uses a flexible tube with a light and camera to examine the inside of your rectum and the lower part of your colon. It is typically used to detect and diagnose issues like polyps, inflammation, or bleeding in the sigmoid colon and rectum. The procedure usually lasts around 20 minutes.
