How to Prepare for a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy ?

To prepare for a flexible sigmoidoscopy, one or more enemas are performed about 2 hours before the procedure to remove all solids from the sigmoid colon. An enema is performed by flushing water, laxative, or sometimes a mild soap solution into the anus using a special wash bottle.

In some cases, the entire gastrointestinal tract must be emptied by following a clear liquid diet for 1 to 3 days before the procedure similar to the preparation for colonoscopy. Patients should not drink beverages containing red or purple dye. Acceptable liquids include

• fat-free bouillon or broth
• strained fruit juice
• water
• plain coffee
• plain tea
• sports drinks, such as Gatorade
• gelatin

A laxative or an enema may also be required the night before a flexible sigmoidoscopy. A laxative is medicine that loosens stool and increases bowel movements.Sigmoidoscopy Surgery in India Laxatives are usually swallowed in pill form or as a powder dissolved in water.

How the Test is Performed ? During the test, you are positioned on your left side with your knees drawn up toward your chest. A gastroenterologist or surgeon will perform the test. First, the doctor does a digital rectal exam by gently inserting a gloved and lubricated finger into the rectum to check for blockage and to dilate (gently enlarge) the anus.

Next, the sigmoidoscope a hollow tube through which the doctor can see– is inserted into the rectum. Air is introduced into the colon to expand the area and help the doctor see better. The air may cause the urge to have a bowel movement.

The sigmoidoscope is advanced, usually as far up as the sigmoid colon or descending colon. Then, as the scope is slowly removed, the lining of the bowel is carefully examined. The hollow channel in the center of the scope allows for the passage of forceps for taking biopsies or for other instruments for therapy.

Sigmoidoscopy may be done using a rigid or flexible scope. Ask your doctor which procedure you are having.

How is a flexible sigmoidoscopy performed?

Examination of the Sigmoid Colon in India

During a flexible sigmoidoscopy, patients lie on their left side on an examination table. The doctor inserts a long, flexible, lighted tube called a sigmoidoscope, or scope, into the anus and slowly guides it through the rectum and into the sigmoid colon. The scope inflates the colon with air to give the doctor a better view. A small camera mounted on the scope transmits a video image from inside the colon to a computer screen, allowing the doctor to carefully examine the tissues lining the sigmoid colon and rectum. The doctor may ask the patient to move periodically so the scope can be adjusted for better viewing.

When the scope reaches the transverse colon, the scope is slowly withdrawn while the lining of the colon is carefully examined again.

After the Procedure Surgery in India

After the procedure, you may experience mild abdominal cramping and gas as a result of the air that was placed in your intestine. Some people may have slight rectal bleeding due to minor irritation and trauma from the insertion of the sigmoidoscope.

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