Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
The term "sigmoidoscopy" means looking inside the sigmoid colon. The colon, also known as the large bowel,
is the last portion of your gastrointestinal tract. The sigmoid is the section of the colon closest to the
rectum and anus. The colon, a hollow tube, measures five feet in length, 20 inches of which is the sigmoid
colon. The function of the sigmoid colon, like the remainder of the colon is to store food byproducts until
its elimination.
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Colonoscopy
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ERCP
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EUS
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Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
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Liver Biospy
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Stretta
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Upper GI Endoscopy
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A colonoscope is used in performing this procedure. A colonoscope is a long, thin, flexible tube with a miniature
video camera and light at its end. The gastroenterologist will infuse a little bit of air into the colon as he or
she inserts the scope. The camera on the end helps the physician both guide the colonoscope throughout the length
of the sigmoid colon and take pictures of the colon.
Flexible sigmoidoscopies are most commonly performed to evaluate problems such as blood loss, pain and changes
in bowel habits. The patient will remain awake throughout the procedure. The patient may elect to watch the
procedure on a television monitor above its bed. Due to the air that is introduced to the colon during the
procedure, the patient may feel slight fullness and cramping, but usually not any acute pain.
The duration of the procedure is normally 10-15 minutes. Afterwards, the patient may drive home and resume normal activities.
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