Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

What is flexible sigmoidoscopy?

Flexible sigmoidoscopy is a procedure in which a trained medical professional uses a flexible, narrow tube with a light and tiny camera on one end, called a sigmoidoscope or scope, to look inside your rectum and lower colon, also called the sigmoid colon and descending colon. Flexible sigmoidoscopy can show irritated or swollen tissue, ulcers, polyps, and cancer.

Why do doctors use flexible sigmoidoscopy?

A flexible sigmoidoscopy can help a doctor find the cause of unexplained symptoms, such as

• bleeding from your anus
• changes in your bowel activity such as diarrhea
• pain in your abdomen
• unexplained weight loss
• Doctors also use flexible sigmoidoscopy as a screening tool for colon polyps and colon and rectal cancer. Screening may find diseases at an early stage, when a doctor has a better chance of curing the disease.

How do I prepare for a flexible sigmoidoscopy?

To prepare for a flexible sigmoidoscopy, you will need to talk with your doctor, change your diet, and clean out your bowel.

You should talk with your doctor about any medical conditions you have and all prescribed and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and supplements you take, including:

• arthritis medicines
• aspirin or medicines that contain aspirin
• blood thinners
• diabetes medicines
• nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen
  vitamins that contain iron or iron supplements

Consent Flexible Sigmoidoscopy