A Guide to Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
Maintaining your digestive health is crucial as you age, so Rocky Mountain Gastroenterology Associates performs screening procedures like flexible sigmoidoscopy at our Colorado clinics. This technique can play a critical role in the early detection and prevention of colon-related issues. Our team tailors these state-of-the-art exams to our patients’ comfort and well-being. Whether you’re proactively managing your health or seeking a diagnosis for digestive concerns, we’ll provide expert care. Learn more about flexible sigmoidoscopy, who needs one, and its benefits below.
What Is a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy?
A flexible sigmoidoscopy is a medical procedure that allows doctors to examine the lining in the lower part of your colon, known as the sigmoid colon. It requires the use of a thin, flexible tube called a sigmoidoscope, which features a light and camera at its tip. This tool allows our specialists to detect abnormalities such as polyps, inflammation, or early signs of colon cancer. This targeted approach, which focuses on the lower third of the colon, is effective and often less invasive than a full colonoscopy.
Understanding Whether You Need a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
Your doctor may recommend a flexible sigmoidoscopy for a variety of reasons. The specialists at Rocky Mountain Gastroenterology Associates perform the procedure for patients with concerning GI symptoms or to address:
- Colon Cancer Screening – Anyone aged 50 and up, especially those with a family history of colon cancer, can benefit from routine screenings. Early detection is key to effective treatment.
- Digestive Symptoms – If you experience abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, or persistent diarrhea, a sigmoidoscopy may be able to pinpoint the cause.
- Chronic Conditions – Patients with conditions like ulcerative colitis or Chron’s disease may need regular exams to monitor them.
- Polyp Follow-Ups – We suggest periodic sigmoidoscopy exams to ensure new polyps haven’t developed.
Why Is a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Useful?
The flexible sigmoidoscopy is a trusted option for anyone seeking an accessible way to diagnose colon cancer or detect GI problems. Furthermore, by identifying and removing polyps early, this procedure can significantly reduce your risk of developing colon cancer. It’s minimally invasive relative to a full colonoscopy. As a result, it requires less bowel preparation and sedation. Most importantly, a flexible sigmoidoscopy provides clear visuals of the lower colon to ensure accurate diagnoses and, ultimately, the prevention of future issues.
Potential Risks of a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
While the procedure is generally safe, it’s important to be aware of potential risks. These include temporary mild cramping or bloating following the exam. Rare complications might also involve minor bleeding from a biopsy site or polyp removal and, in very rare cases, perforation of the colon wall. Rest assured, our team takes every safety precaution to avoid these risks. We’ll also discuss them with you before your examination to ensure you’re prepared.
How We Perform a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
A flexible sigmoidoscopy is a straightforward process that usually takes 15-20 minutes. Before your examination day, we’ll provide instructions about your bowel preparation regimen. It may include a clear liquid diet and a prescribed enema to ensure your colon is clean for better visuals. During the procedure, you’ll lie on your side as our doctors insert the sigmoidoscope into your rectum. We’ll gently advance the tube into your lower colon to capture live video or images for review. We may also introduce some air to the colon for better visibility. This may involve slight discomfort. If we detect any abnormalities, such as polyps, we’ll remove or biopsy them during the session. Because there’s little to no anesthesia for this procedure, you can resume your normal activities as soon as you leave our office.
What to Expect Following Your Procedure
Most patients experience minimal discomfort following a sigmoidoscopy. It’s normal to feel slight cramping or bloating for a few hours due to the air we introduced during the exam. You may also notice mild spotting if we take a biopsy or remove polyps. After a few days, your results will be ready for review. Our doctors will discuss the findings and advise any next steps, which may include follow-up screenings, further tests, or treatment.
Contact Our Experts Today
Rocky Mountain Gastroenterology Associates combines advanced medical technology with compassionate care to provide the best possible outcomes for our patients throughout Colorado. A flexible sigmoidoscopy is ideal for colon cancer screening and diagnosing GI concerns quickly and accurately, so contact us today to schedule a consultation and take charge of your digestive health.
Go back