Sigmoidoscopy

Sigmoidoscopy

What is sigmoidoscopy?

Sigmoidoscopy is a procedure used to examine the lower portion of the bowel. While the procedure itself isn't painful, it may cause discomfort similar to intestinal colic afterward. This discomfort arises because the doctor needs to introduce a small amount of air into the intestine to obtain a clear view.

What occurs before the procedure?

On the day of the procedure, an enema or suppository is administered to soften the stools in the lower intestine that need to be emptied.

The patient is positioned lying down, usually on their side with their knees drawn up to their elbows. This positioning facilitates the doctor's ability to conduct the examination through the rectum.

What happens during the procedure?

After the doctor performs a digital rectal examination to assess the rectum, a sigmoidoscope, a tube equipped with a light source and a small camera, is inserted.

Air is gently blown through the tube as it is slowly advanced 18 to 22cm into the intestine. The sigmoidoscope is then carefully withdrawn while the doctor examines the intestinal lining for abnormalities such as inflammation or tumors.

Suspicious tissue samples may be biopsied and analyzed under a microscope.

Due to the challenge in examining the lowest part of the intestine (rectum) with the longer sigmoidoscope, a shorter proctoscope, measuring only 7 to 10cm, may be used immediately following the removal of the sigmoidoscope to study the rectum.

Is hospitalization necessary?

Sigmoidoscopy is typically performed on an outpatient basis without anesthesia and generally lasts no longer than 10 to 15 minutes. After the procedure, the patient can return home immediately.

In some cases, a mild sedative may be administered to help the patient relax during the procedure, requiring someone else to drive them home afterward.