Sigmoidoscopy
PROCEDURE
Your doctor has scheduled you to have a flexible sigmoidoscopy which is a diagnostic test
that allows the doctor to directly examine the rectum and the area of the colon just above
the rectum, the sigmoid colon with a flexible instrument called a sigmoidoscope. When
performed by a specially trained physician, this is a safe and accurate way to determine the
condition of your rectum and sigmoid colon.
After preparing for your sigmoidoscopy by cleansing your bowel, you will report to the
designated area, as discussed by your physician.
Your sigmoidoscopy will be done in an outpatient examination area or in our office where a
nurse will explain the procedure and give you an opportunity to ask questions.
You will be lying on your left side and after a rectal examination, your doctor will gently
insert the sigmoidoscope into your rectum and guide it up into the sigmoid colon. The
entire exam lasts a few minutes. You may feel some cramping during the exam. This is
normal, as small amounts of air are inserted through the scope into your bowel to allow
your doctor to see better.
It is important for you to let the doctor or nurse know if you have discomfort. By relaxing
and taking slow deep breaths, the exam will be better tolerated.
Biopsies may be taken during the exam and therapies may be performed. You should not
feel this.
After your sigmoidoscopy is completed, you will be asked to pass the air inserted and dress.
Before you are discharged, you will be given instructions regarding problems to be aware
of after the procedure, results of the exam, treatment, diet, and follow up appointments if
needed.
After your sigmoidoscopy, you should not expect to be uncomfortable but:
• You may have abdominal discomfort. This is most likely due to air put in during the
exam and should not last long.
• If you experience these symptoms: persistent abdominal pain, abdominal bloating,
rectal bleeding, fever, nausea, or vomiting - you should contact your doctor
immediately.
• Feel free to discuss these and other questions with the doctor or nurse before your
examination. You may also call us at 845-331-8222.
PREPARATION
Because the sigmoidoscopy involves looking inside of the intestine, body waste must be
flushed out of your system so that your doctor can have a clear view. If your rectum and
sigmoid colon are not completely clean, your doctor may not be able to complete the
examination. Your cooperation is important.
PLEASE FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS: Your doctor is recommending the use of
FLEET ENEMA (water retention - the green box) to cleanse the bowel because it is safe
and effective. Please use 1 FLEET ENEMA one hour prior to your scheduled procedure
time. Please follow instructions on the FLEET ENEMA box for use if needed.
Your doctor has scheduled you to have a flexible sigmoidoscopy which is a diagnostic test
that allows the doctor to directly examine the rectum and the area of the colon just above
the rectum, the sigmoid colon with a flexible instrument called a sigmoidoscope. When
performed by a specially trained physician, this is a safe and accurate way to determine the
condition of your rectum and sigmoid colon.
After preparing for your sigmoidoscopy by cleansing your bowel, you will report to the
designated area, as discussed by your physician.
Your sigmoidoscopy will be done in an outpatient examination area or in our office where a
nurse will explain the procedure and give you an opportunity to ask questions.
You will be lying on your left side and after a rectal examination, your doctor will gently
insert the sigmoidoscope into your rectum and guide it up into the sigmoid colon. The
entire exam lasts a few minutes. You may feel some cramping during the exam. This is
normal, as small amounts of air are inserted through the scope into your bowel to allow
your doctor to see better.
It is important for you to let the doctor or nurse know if you have discomfort. By relaxing
and taking slow deep breaths, the exam will be better tolerated.
Biopsies may be taken during the exam and therapies may be performed. You should not
feel this.
After your sigmoidoscopy is completed, you will be asked to pass the air inserted and dress.
Before you are discharged, you will be given instructions regarding problems to be aware
of after the procedure, results of the exam, treatment, diet, and follow up appointments if
needed.
After your sigmoidoscopy, you should not expect to be uncomfortable but:
• You may have abdominal discomfort. This is most likely due to air put in during the
exam and should not last long.
• If you experience these symptoms: persistent abdominal pain, abdominal bloating,
rectal bleeding, fever, nausea, or vomiting - you should contact your doctor
immediately.
• Feel free to discuss these and other questions with the doctor or nurse before your
examination. You may also call us at 845-331-8222.
PREPARATION
Because the sigmoidoscopy involves looking inside of the intestine, body waste must be
flushed out of your system so that your doctor can have a clear view. If your rectum and
sigmoid colon are not completely clean, your doctor may not be able to complete the
examination. Your cooperation is important.
PLEASE FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS: Your doctor is recommending the use of
FLEET ENEMA (water retention - the green box) to cleanse the bowel because it is safe
and effective. Please use 1 FLEET ENEMA one hour prior to your scheduled procedure
time. Please follow instructions on the FLEET ENEMA box for use if needed.