MEDICAL Services
Endoscopy
ENDOSCOPY CENTER AT THE ELLIOT HOSPITAL
What is a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy?
Sigmoidoscopy is a procedure in which a flexible tube called a sigmoidoscope is inserted through the rectum into the lower colon. It allows the physician to determine the presence and/or the severity of any abnormalities. If necessary, biopsies or polyps may be taken through the instrument without any discomfort to you.
To further clarify any abnormality that may have been detected by X ray.
To remove polyps or take biopsies, if indicated.
For evaluation of rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, prolonged diarrhea, and/or change in bowel habits, or irregularity.
To re-examine the rectum and sigmoid after treatment for disease, to rule out a reoccurrence of disease, and/or to evaluate the healing process.
To screen for early detection of colon diseases or malignancies, especially in high risk persons such as:
• Those who have had previous surgery for malignancies.
• Persons with long-standing colitis, Crohn's, or inflammatory bowel disease.
• Those who have a family history of colon cancer.
• Anyone 50 years of age or older.
Preparing For Your Sigmoidoscopy
- Follow your physician's specific instructions for bowel preparation. This may include a clear liquid diet the day before, and fasting prior to your scheduled procedure, as well as suppositories, enemas, or other laxatives.
- If you take any medications or insulin therapy, please consult your physician about whether to take them prior to your procedure. Some examples are aspirin, arthritic medications, anticoagulants (blood thinners) or iron products.
- Notify physician of any allergies to mediation, as well as any need for antibiotic therapy prior to procedures, treatments, or dental work.
- Please bring the completed outpatient questionnaire with you when you come to the hospital.
Please register at the outpatient desk one hour before your appointment, regardless of whether you preregistered. If you need to cancel your appointment, please call your doctor at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled time of your sigmoidoscopy.
Outpatient registration will direct you to the Endoscopy Center.
You will need to sign a consent form for this procedure. (If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must accompany you and sign the consent form). Relatives will not be permitted to stay in the endoscopy area, but will be notified when the procedure is completed.
The endoscopy nursing staff will answer questions you may have regarding your procedure, and will be with you throughout the procedure to assist you and your physician.
The procedure is performed with you lying on your left side with your knees bent.
The sigmoidoscope will be gently inserted into the rectum and carefully advanced to the sigmoid area.
You may occasionally experience cramping sensations during the procedure. This is normal and is caused by the insertion of air through the sigmoidoscope. Your physician will make every effort to minimize discomfort. The procedure takes approximately 5 – 10 minutes, but may differ for each patient.
Any abnormalities will be identified, biopsies will be taken, polyps removed, and appropriate treatment will be performed as necessary. Biopsy and polyp removal are painless. All samples are then forwarded to the laboratory for analysis.
If you are an outpatient, you will be discharged from the Endoscopy Center when the procedure is complete. No driver is needed. If you are an inpatient, a nurse will take you back to your room.
You may experience a bloated feeling and have “gas cramps” from the air that was introduced into the sigmoid colon during the examination. This should stop as soon as the air is passed.
This test may be followed by an x-ray procedure called a barium enema, which examines the remainder of the large bowel.
You may keep your regular diet, unless otherwise instructed by your physician.
Upon being discharged from the hospital, if you have any questions or concerns, be sure to call your doctor, or Nurse On-Call at (603) 663-4567 to speak with a nurse 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The risk of complications from a sigmoidoscopy is rare, but there are potential problems, such as perforation of the colon or hemorrhaging (excessive bleeding). Your doctor will discuss possible complications with you before the procedure.
We hope this information helps you understand and prepare for your sigmoidoscopy. If you have questions prior to your appointment at the Endoscopy Center, please call Nurse On-Call at (603) 663-4567 or your physician.
Remember to wear comfortable clothing on the day of the procedure and to bring:
• Completed Outpatient Questionnaire
• Eye Glasses (or Contacts)
• Hearing Aids
