A flexible sigmoidoscopy is an exam used to evaluate the lower part of your large intestine or colon. By inserting a thin flexible tube with a camera at the end, your doctor can see polyps, cancers, or other problems in the last two feet of your intestine (the sigmoid colon) and the rectum. He can remove tissue samples through the scope.
WHY YOU MIGHT NEED A FLEXIBLE SIGMOIDOSCOPY
Sigmoidoscopy investigates potential causes of:
- Abdominal pain
- Rectal bleeding
- Chronic diarrhea
- Changes in bowel habits
- Other intestinal problems
While colonoscopies are often used to study the colon, there are times your doctor might prefer to order a sigmoidoscopy.
- Less risk with a sigmoidoscopy since
- No anesthetic is used
- No likelihood of perforation
- Preparation and testing time are less
Bleeding or rectal tears are rare complications of the process.
The test still screens for colon cancer, so if you are age 50 or over and have no risk factors for colon cancer other than age, your doctor might prefer a sigmoid exam every 5 years to a more invasive colonoscopy.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING A FLEXIBLE SIGMOIDOSCOPY
As with colonoscopies, you still need to follow a special diet the day before the exam, take a liquid or pill-form laxative, and use an enema kit before the procedure.
During the exam, you lie on your side on the exam table with your knees toward your chest as a doctor inserts to sigmoidoscopy scope into your rectum. The device pumps air into your colon which enables the doctor to have a better view. The camera on the unit permits the doctor to view images of your colon on a monitor. He may insert instruments through the scope to take tissue samples.
The exam only takes about 15 minutes if no biopsy is taken information about the state of your colon. If he finds a polyp, a colonoscopy may be necessary.
SCHEDULE A FLEXIBLE SIGMOIDOSCOPY AT OASIS ADVANCED GASTROENTEROLOGY
A Flexible Sigmoidoscopy can be invaluable in diagnosing problems of the colon. Contact Oasis Advanced Gastroenterology in Palm Springs to schedule a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy with Dr. Asgeri.
Request an appointment online or call 760-699-7607.