Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Procedure in New Jersey
If your doctor has recommended a sigmoidoscopy, it's natural to have questions about what to expect. We're here to provide clear answers and guide you through the process.
A sigmoidoscopy is a common, safe, and minimally invasive procedure that allows our gastroenterology specialists to get a clear view of the lower part of your large intestine (your sigmoid colon). This vital diagnostic tool helps us investigate symptoms like abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, or changes in bowel habits, and can be used to screen for polyps or colorectal cancer.
At Hackensack Meridian Health, your comfort and well-being are our top priorities.
Why a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy is Done
A flexible sigmoidoscopy is a preventative measure to help detect potential issues at an early stage, even before you may experience any symptoms. It is also helpful in allowing your physician to diagnose the cause of certain symptoms you may already be experiencing, such as:
- Abnormal X-ray findings
- Bleeding
- Diarrhea
- Lower abdominal pain
Find a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Specialist or Procedure Location
Find a gastroenterologist, flexible sigmoidoscopy procedure location, learn more about why you should choose Hackensack Meridian Health, or view all of our gastrointestinal services and the conditions we treat.
What to Expect Before and After a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
To allow for a thorough exam, your lower colon should be clean. This means you may only drink clear liquids, along with taking laxatives or an enema the day before the procedure.
Bloating and bowel distension are common and should only last about 30 to 60 minutes after the procedure. If your physician removes biopsies or polyps during the exam, you may experience some spotting of blood afterward. However, this is rarely serious. You should not drive or operate machinery for the remainder of the exam day.
Your physician will be able to provide you with additional information before your exam day.
Other Types of Gastrointestinal Diagnostic Exams
Other types of exams include barium enema X-rays and stool samples. Your physician will discuss which type of exam is best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
A flexible sigmoidoscopy procedure is a simple outpatient exam that can be helpful in uncovering any potential digestive issues, such as Colitis, Diverticulosis and colon cancer.
A flexible sigmoidoscopy procedure visually examines your lower colon using a long flexible tube with a small camera at the end. During the procedure, a video monitor in the exam room shows the images captured on camera. The physician watches the monitor and may also remove tissue samples (biopsies) or polyps for further tests.
Your colon must be completely clean for the exam to be successful. Your doctor will provide specific instructions, which may include:
- Following a clear liquid diet for 1 to 3 days.
- Taking a laxative or using an enema kit the night before or the morning of the procedure.
- Arranging for someone to drive you home afterward.
