Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

A flexible sigmoidoscopy is similar to a colonoscopy; however, it only allows inspection of the lining of the rectum and anus, stopping at the lower part of the colon

If your specialist sees an area that needs further evaluation, a biopsy may be taken to be analyzed even if they don't suspect cancer. If any polyps (wart-like growth) are found, your specialist may take a biopsy, remove them or organise a colonoscopy to further examine the entire colon.

What can I expect on the day?

Upon your admission into hospital a small enema (a solution that is inserted into the rectum to clean the lowerbowel) is given. A sedative will then be administered through a vein in the arm by the anaesthetist to make you more comfortable.

After your procedure:

When you wake up after the procedure, as a safety precaution, it is important that you do not get out of bed until advised by the nursing staff to do so.

The doctor will only give you a brief outline of the results of your procedure on the day. Further details will be given at your follow-up.

You may experience some cramping pain or bloating because of the air entering the bowel during the procedure. This should go away when you pass wind, to facilitate this moving around helps.