Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

What is a flexible sigmoidoscopy?

A flexible sigmoidoscopy is a common and effective test used to examine the lower part of your bowel. This procedure uses a long, flexible tube with a light and camera (called a flexible sigmoidoscope) that is gently inserted through your anus to allow the doctor to view the inside of your bowel.

This test is often used to investigate symptoms such as changes in bowel habits (like constipation or diarrhoea), abdominal pain, bleeding, or unexplained weight loss. It can detect conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, polyps, or bowel cancer. During the procedure, the doctor can take biopsies (small tissue samples) and remove polyps if needed.

Benefits of a flexible sigmoidoscopy

• Provides a clear and accurate diagnosis for bowel conditions.
• Allows for the early detection and removal of polyps, reducing the risk of bowel cancer.
• Minimally invasive, quick, and well-tolerated by most patients.
• Enables targeted treatment by providing detailed information about your bowel health.

Why you might need a flexible sigmoidoscopy

Your doctor may recommend a flexible sigmoidoscopy if you are experiencing:

• Persistent changes in bowel habits.
• Blood in your stool.
• Unexplained abdominal pain or bloating.
• Frequent diarrhoea or constipation.
• A family history of bowel disease or polyps.

This test provides detailed visual insights into the condition of your bowel, helping your doctor diagnose or monitor conditions effectively and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.

What preparation is required?

Before the procedure, you will receive written instructions on how to prepare. To ensure a clear view of your bowel lining, you may need to take a strong laxative or be given an enema to empty your lower bowel.

If a laxative is provided, you’ll mix it with water and follow the instructions on when to take it. Alternatively, an enema may be administered about an hour before the procedure. It’s important to follow the dietary advice given, including when to stop eating or drinking.

Let the medical team know if you have diabetes, take blood-thinning medications, or use aspirin, as these may need to be managed before the procedure.

What happens during the procedure?

The procedure usually takes about 20 minutes. A local anaesthetic gel may be applied to make the process more comfortable. If needed, sedation or gas and air (Entonox) can also be used to help manage any discomfort.

You will lie on your side while the doctor gently inserts the flexible sigmoidoscope through your anus and guides it into the lower part of your bowel. As the camera transmits images to a monitor, the doctor can examine your bowel lining in detail.

During the procedure, the doctor may take biopsies or remove polyps using special tools passed through the scope. You might feel mild cramping or wind-like sensations, but these are generally short-lived.

What are the potential risks and complications?

Flexible sigmoidoscopy is a safe and commonly performed procedure, but as with any medical test, there are some risks, including:

• Bowel perforation (tear): Rare but may require surgical repair.
• Bleeding: This can occur if biopsies are taken or polyps are removed. Bleeding is usually minor and stops on its own.
• Reactions to sedatives: If sedation is used, there’s a small chance of temporary side effects, such as changes in breathing or heart rate, which are usually managed quickly.

These risks are rare, and the benefits of detecting and addressing bowel conditions often outweigh the potential complications.

After the procedure

After the procedure, you may feel bloated or experience mild wind-like pains, but these typically settle within a few hours.

If you had sedation, you’ll need time to recover before going home and should avoid driving, using heavy machinery, or signing legal documents for 24 hours.

The doctor will often discuss your results immediately after the procedure. If biopsies were taken, these will be sent to a lab, and the results will be shared with you at a follow-up appointment.

If you experience severe pain, heavy bleeding, or other concerning symptoms after the procedure, contact the medical team for further advice.

Why choose a flexible sigmoidoscopy?

• Accurate diagnosis: Detects a wide range of bowel conditions, enabling prompt treatment.
• Polyp removal: Offers the opportunity to remove potentially harmful growths during the procedure.
• Minimally invasive: A quick and relatively comfortable test, often completed within 20 minutes.
• Early detection: Identifies abnormalities early, potentially preventing more serious conditions.

A flexible sigmoidoscopy is a valuable diagnostic tool that provides you with peace of mind and ensures that any bowel-related issues are promptly addressed.