Sigmoidoscopy

	Sigmoidoscopy enables the physician to look at about one-third of the large intestine. Physicians may use this procedure to find the cause of diarrhea, abdominal pain, or constipation. They also use sigmoidoscopy to look for early signs of cancer in the colon and rectum. With sigmoidoscopy, the physician can see bleeding, inflammation, abnormal growths, and ulcers. Depending on your physician’s recommendations, sedation may be given. For the procedure, you will lie on your left side on the examining table. The physician will insert a short, flexible, lighted tube into your rectum and slowly guide it into your colon. The tube is called a sigmoidoscope. The scope transmits an image of the inside of the rectum and colon, so the physician can examine the lining of these organs. The scope also blows air into these organs, which inflates them and helps the physician see better. If anything unusual is in your rectum or colon, such as a polyp or inflamed tissue, the physician can remove a piece of it using instruments inserted into the scope. The physician will send that piece of tissue (biopsy) to the lab for testing. We normally receive the results of biopsies within 7-10 business days. After your physician reviews the report, we will call you with results. Sigmoidoscopy takes 5 to 15 minutes. During the procedure, you will feel pressure and slight cramping in your lower abdomen. You will feel better afterwards when the air leaves your colon. The colon and rectum must be completely empty for sigmoidoscopy to be thorough and safe. Please see the sigmoidoscopy preparation instructions for complete details.

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