FLEXIBLE SIGMOIDOSCOPY

Flexible sigmoidoscopy is a procedure that allows your physician to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. The primary difference between a flexible sigmoidoscopy and a colonoscopy is that a flexible sigmoidoscopy focuses on the lower third of the colon (or sigmoid colon) while a colonoscopy is used to examine the colon in its entirety.

Flexible sigmoidoscopy is used to determine the cause of changes in bowel movements and can be used if you have: • abdominal pain • bleeding from the rectum • weight loss

WHAT TO EXPECT During Your Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Prior to a flexible sigmoidoscopy, you will receive a sedative to help you stay relaxed and comfortable throughout the procedure. During the flexible sigmoidoscopy, you will lie on your left side on an exam table. The physician uses a sigmoidoscope, a long, thin tube-like instrument with a light and video camera on the tip, to perform the exam. The physician slowly guides the scope through the rectum and into the sigmoid colon until the scope reaches the transverse colon. The scope inflates the colon with air to give the physician a clear view of the tissue lining, allowing the physician to thoroughly examine and identify any problem areas.

The physician may use a special tool that passes through the scope to take tiny samples of any abnormal-looking tissue in your sigmoid colon for testing, which is called a biopsy. This tool can also be used to remove polyps. Polyps are abnormal growths that can be found on the tissue lining of your colon. Although colon polyps are common in adults and are usually harmless, some polyps have the potential to transform into cancer, if they remain within the colon. Identifying and removing polyps early is an effective way to lower your risk of colon cancer.

If any abnormalities are found by your physician during your flexible sigmoidoscopy, a full colonoscopy may be recommended so that your entire colon can be examined.

After Your Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Although the entire procedure typically takes around 15 to 20 minutes, you should prepare to be at the hospital for up to 2 or 3 hours to allow time for the sedative to wear off after your procedure.

Once your flexible sigmoidoscopy is complete, you will go to a recovery area and will be monitored by a nurse until you are fully awake. At that time, your physician will share the results of your colonoscopy, and any abnormal tissue that was removed during your colonoscopy will be sent to a pathologist for further testing. In most cases, pathology results will be available within 1 to 2 weeks after your procedure.

Although rare, if you notice any of the following side effects contact your physician right away: • severe abdominal pain • fever • bloody bowel movements • dizziness • weakness