Flexible sigmoidoscopy lets your doctor examine the lining of the rectum and a portion of the colon (large intestine) by passing a flexible tube about the thickness of your finger into the anus and slowly advancing it along the bowel.

This has steering controls at one end and a digital camera and a bright light at the other. The detailed colour images of the lining of the bowel are displayed on a video monitor. The flexible sigmoidoscope also allows the consultant to obtain tissue samples (biopsies), the process of taking a biopsy is painless.

Your doctor has recommended an endoscopy. However, it is your decision whether to go ahead with the procedure or not. This information will explain the benefits and risks to help you make an informed decision.
 

A Barium enema may be used to investigate the bowel. This involves passing a liquid that shows up on X ray (Barium) through a tube inserted into the anus. A number of X rays are then taken.

• Before the Flexible Sigmoisoscopy

Please continue your normal medication unless you are told otherwise.
You may be given some laxatives or an enema to take the day before the procedure or after you arrive at the clinic. This is to ensure your bowel is empty so the consultant has a clear view.  The consultant will ask you to lie down in a comfortable position and your oxygen levels and heart rate will be monitored during the procedure.
A flexible sigmoidoscopy usually takes between fifteen and twenty minutes and, although uncomfortable, should not be too painful.

• Sedation

A sedative is very rarely required for the test but is available on request. If you wish to have sedation a needle is placed in your hand or arm and a sedative (midazolam) administered immediately before the flexible sigmoidoscopy. The sedative acts for a very short period and will help you to relax during the test. If you are considering having sedation you will need someone to bring you to the clinic and to drive you home. You should not drive for 24 hours after having  sedation.

• During the Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

A flexible telescope (endoscope) will be inserted into the back passage and air will be blown into the large bowel (this improves the view for the consultant). The consultant will usually look up to the splenic flexure (the left colic flexure near the spleen). The consultant will be able to look for problems such as inflammation or polyps. They will be able to perform biopsies and take photographs to help make the diagnosis. If a polyp is found they may be able to remove it.

• After the Flexible Sigmoidoscopy   

After the procedure you may feel a bit bloated for a few hours, but this will pass. You should be able to go home straightaway and resume normal activities. The consultant will tell you what was found during the flexible sigmoidoscopy and will discuss any treatment you may need. You should be able to go back to work the day after the flexible sigmoidoscopy unless you are told otherwise.

What complications can happen?

Flexible sigmoidoscopy is a very safe procedure, with minimal risk of a significant complication. The experienced healthcare team will make every effort to minimize any risk associated with the procedure. However, bleeding or perforation of the bowel are very rare but recognized complications that may require surgery to correct.

If you have any specific concerns about the procedure please raise these with the healthcare staff or consultant.