Diagnosis of the diseases of the colon or any growths in the intestine is done by endoscopic examination of the intestine. In any endoscopic diagnostic procedure, a tube with a fitted camera is used to image and study the inside of the organs and to diagnose any abnormalities if any. Flexible sigmoidoscopy uses a flexible endoscope to study the sigmoid colon of the intestine.
When is a flexible sigmoidoscopy advised ?
Flexible sigmoidoscopy is advised or indicated in individuals who present with symptoms of constant gastric and abdominal discomfort. Flexible Sigmoidoscopy is advised in patients who present with abdominal bleeding, rectal bleeding, intestinal abnormalities, change in the bowel habits and to check for colon or rectal or colorectal cancer. There might be other indications for a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy and hence it is advised that you asked your treating doctor to explain you the details of the procedure and its indications.
Who performs a flexible sigmoidoscopy ?
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy is performed by gastroenterologist or a surgeon in a hospital setup or a gastroenterology laboratory which is equipped for endoscopic procedures.
How do you prepare for a flexible sigmoidoscopy ?
Once you discuss your symptoms and problems with your gastroenterologist, your doctor will do a complete physical and clinical examination along with the required blood examination if necessary. It is always advised that you discuss your detailed medical history, history of any surgery and list of medications which you are taking, as they have to be reviewed before the procedure. You should also inform your doctor if you are pregnant or are allergic to any medication which could be used during the procedure.
Your doctor will also ask you to cleanse your bowel completely by either changing your diet, advising some enema or laxatives or a combination of two. It is very essential that your bowels should be completely clean before the Flexible Sigmoidoscopy is carried out to get accurate results.
What happens during a flexible sigmoidoscopy ?
You will be asked to change into hospital gown and will be asked to lie down on your left side on an examination table. Anesthesia might be used depending upon the requirement. Your treating doctor will insert the sigmoidodcope into the large intestine via the anus and air is used to expand the colon for better visibility. The sigmoidoscope is used to image the intestine and look for any abnormalities. The images are captured in a monitor connected to the sigmoidoscope. Once the test is complete your doctor will remove the sigmoidoscope slowly.
The test usually takes about 15-20 minutes, but this timeline may be extended if any biopsy is also performed during the test.
After the test is completed you might feel slight abdominal discomfort, cramps or gaseous feeling in the stomach, but these symptoms will fade eventually and you will be allowed to resume your daily activities and your routine diet.
How are the tests interpreted after a flexible sigmoidoscopy ?
A gastroenterologist reports a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy depending on any abnormalities found in the intestines. The test is considered negative if your colon is normal and no abnormalities are detected. If any growths or polyps are detected during the test, it is positive and your further treatment plan is decided accordingly.
What are the risks and complications of flexible sigmoidoscopy ?
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy is a rather safe procedure but occasionally one can have bleeding after the test or the sigmoidoscope can cause perforation in the wall of the intestine. If other symptoms like abdominal discomfort, high fever and chills persist one should immediately seek medical care to avoid any serious complications.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.
