Flexible sigmoidoscopy is a very useful tool in the evaluation and treatment of diseases of the colon and rectum. It is a minimally invasive procedure in which the lining of the last third of the colon can be examined by directly looking at the lining. Biopsies (samples of the lining) can be taken during flexible sigmoidoscopy.

Flexible sigmoidoscopy is performed in a specially equipped room, usually in a doctor’s office or in an endoscopy suite or lab. Sedatives (sleeping medicines, like Valium) are not necessary. The procedure is performed with the patient lying on his/her left side. The sigmoidoscope is a flexible tube with a light and video camera at the tip, and wheels for steering the tip at the other end. It is inserted through the anal opening and advanced through the rectum and into the colon. This is done under direct vision, with the doctor watching the scope advance through the colon on a monitor. (The patient can also watch the procedure, if he/she desires.) During this insertion phase, the patient may experience cramping, especially as the scope is being pushed around corners. Careful inspection of the lining is made during the removal of the scope, and air is blown into the colon to help separate the walls and allow the doctor to see better. Any abnormalities can be biopsied (sampled), and small growths (polyps) can be seen. If a polyp is seen, colonoscopy should be scheduled to evaluate the entire colon for other polyps and remove any polyps.y an

Preparation for flexible sigmoidoscopy is very simple, and that is one of its advantages.

1. Sedation is not routinely used for flexible sigmoidoscopy. Therefore, it is not necessary for the patient to be accompanied to the procedure.
2. Bowel preparation is also very simple. Diet restriction is not necessary. Two Fleets® enemas are the only preparation needed to clean the colon.

There are two parts to the results from flexible sigmoidoscopy. The endoscopic impression is based on the visual inspection of the lining of the colon. This is known immediately after the procedure. The pathologic impression is based on the evaluation of any tissue samples (biopsies) that may have been taken during the examination. These are usually ready in 3-5 business days.