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Why would I need this test?
Sigmoidoscopy (sig-moi-DAHS-kah-pee) is a test used to find the cause of diarrhea, abdominal pain, blood in stool or constipation. By itself, sigmoidoscopy is not an adequate test to screen for colon cancer since the scope doesn't visualize the entire large intestine or colon.
Sigmoidoscopy allows the physician to examine at the inside of the large intestine from the rectum through the last part of the colon, called the sigmoid colon, and see bleeding, inflammation, abnormal growths, and ulcers.
How do I prepare for this test?
Your colon and rectum must be empty for the procedure to be thorough and safe. You will probably be instructed to drink only clear liquids for 12 to 24 hours beforehand. A liquid diet means fat-free bouillon or broth, Jell-O®, strained fruit juice, water, plain coffee or tea, or soda. The night before or right before the procedure, you may also need to have an enema to wash out the intestines.
How is this test performed?
For the procedure, you will lie on an examining table, on your left side. The physician will insert a short, flexible, lighted tube, called a sigmoidoscope (sig-MOI-duh-skope), into your rectum and slowly guide it into your colon. Through the scope the physician can carefully examine the inside of the rectum and colon.
How long does the procedure take?
Sigmoidoscopy takes 10 to 20 minutes. During the procedure, you might feel pressure and slight cramping in your lower abdomen.
What happens if an abnormality is found?
If anything unusual is in your rectum or colon, like a polyp or inflamed tissue, the physician can remove a piece of it using instruments inserted into the scope. The physician will send that piece of tissue (biopsy) to the lab for testing.
Are there any risks associated with this test?
Complications are uncommon, however bleeding and puncture of the colon are possible complications of sigmoidoscopy.
What is a desirable result?
A normal colon will appear light pink or orange, with half-moon shaped folds. The rectum and colon will be free from hemorrhoids, fissures, and abscesses.
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External Source
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The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse
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This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.
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