What is sigmoidoscopy?
Sigmoidoscopy is a medical procedure that includes the use of a tool called sigmoidoscope to look into the sigmoid colon, the lower part of the large intestine. This procedure is sometimes recommended for screening of colon cancer and can also be used as a diagnostic tool to determine why the patient experiences diarrhea, rectal bleeding and other symptoms related to the gastrointestinal tract. It is important to note that sigmoidoscopy is not the same as full colonoscopy that actually looks at the entire large intestine, and therefore signs of cancer or colon disease with sigmoidoscopy can be omitted.
There are two basic types of sigmoidoscopy. In flexible sigmoidoscopy, the physician uses a flexible probe that is gently inserted into the rectum and slowly expands to the sigmoid colon. In strict sigmoidoscopy, a stiff probe is used; Because of the greater discomfort associated with this technique, most patients and doctors prefer flexible sigmoidoscopies. BThe doctor will be able to see what is happening inside a part of the large intestine that leads to the large intestine.
usually a patient who reserve sigmoidoscopy must go to a liquid food for 24 hours before the procedure and may also be obliged to go through. This clears the large intestine, making it easier to visualize its internal structure with a sigmoidoscope and also tends to be more comfortable and less messy. During sigmoidoscopy, the patient lies on his left side because it provides the most comfortable and feasible angle. Sedatives are not usually prescribed unless the patient explicitly requests them.
When using a camera and light, the doctor can see the inside of the large intestine because the sigmoidoscope is inserted. If it is subject to interest, such as a lesion or a swallower can insert tools into the probe and collect a sample for a biopsy. In some cases this may cause a slight bleedappreciates that requires cauterization; In extreme cases, it may be necessary to correct the bleeding surgically, but this is quite rare. After the procedure, the doctor may discuss your findings and give recommendations that are usually determined by whether the sample for the biopsy has been removed.
As with any medical procedure, there are some potential complications for sigmoidoscopy. This procedure is sometimes accompanied by extreme discomfort and rectal bleeding. In very rare cases, it is also possible to perforate the intestine with a probe, which requires immediate operation to fix the problem. Before you agree to the procedure, make sure to discuss the requirements for care for and after the procedure and potential risks of sigmoidoscopy with your doctor.