Procedures
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
- “Sigmoidoscopy” is a procedure that allows the physician to examine the inside of 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 four 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.
- A colonoscope is used to perform 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 the bed. Air introduced to the colon during the procedure, may cause feelings of fullness and cramping, but acute pain is very rare. The procedure normally takes 10-15 minutes. Afterwards, the patient may drive home and resume normal activities. .
Patient preparation for the procedure
Preparation for Sigmoidoscopy requires an application of Proctoclyss enema around 1 hr prior to the procedure.
Dr. Kunal Das
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