FLEXIBLE SIGMOIDOSCOPY

WHAT IS A FLEXIBLE SIGMOIDOSCOPY?

Flexible sigmoidoscopy is a procedure that enables examination of the lower part of the gastrointestinal tract, usually including the anal canal, rectum and sigmoid colon, using a thin flexible tube with its own inbuilt video camera, lens and light source (colonoscope).

WHY IS A FLEXIBLE SIGMOIDOSCOPY DONE?

Flexible sigmoidoscopy is performed to evaluate lower gastrointestinal symptoms such as bleeding or rectal pain, without the need for thorough bowel preparation, although usually a cleansing enema is provided by staff at hospital immediately prior to the procedure being undertaken.

WHAT PREPARATION IS REQUIRED?

No formal preparation other than a cleansing enema is normally required for a flexible sigmoidoscopy.

Possible medication adjustments: Before the test, be sure to discuss with the doctor whether you should adjust any of your usual medications before the procedure, any drug allergies you may have, and whether you have any major conditions such as a heart or lung condition, that might require special attention during the procedure.

WHAT CAN BE EXPECTED DURING FLEXIBLE SIGMOIDOSCOPY?

Flexible sigmoidoscopy can be performed with patients awake (unsedated) or sedated. If sedation is preferred, a period of fasting (five [5] hours) will be required.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE FLEXIBLE SIGMOIDOSCOPY?

After the flexible sigmoidoscopy, the patient will be discharged rapidly if no sedation is required, however a period of observation in recovery will be necessary if the patient has been sedated (see colonoscopy).

WHAT ARE THE POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS OF FLEXIBLE SIGMOIDOSCOPY?

Complications during flexible sigmoidoscopy are rare but relate to sedation if sedation is required (see colonoscopy) as well as local irritation in the anorectal region.

If any of your questions have not been answered here, please feel free to discuss them with the nurse or your doctor before the procedure begins.