Flexible Sigmoidoscopy - GI Specialists of Georgia

Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Procedures in Atlanta, GA

Many people feel anxious when they hear they need a lower digestive tract exam. However, learning about the process can help ease your mind. If your doctor has recommended a flexible sigmoidoscopy, you might wonder what this exam involves and how to prepare for it. GI Specialists of Georgia provides top-quality care for patients across the Atlanta area. Our skilled doctors regularly perform the flexible sigmoidoscopy examination to help diagnose and treat various digestive issues, and we can ready you for this procedure.

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What Is a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy?

A flexible sigmoidoscopy is a simple medical exam that allows a doctor to examine the lower part of your large intestine. This lower section of your bowel is called the sigmoid colon.

During a flexible sigmoidoscopy procedure, the doctor uses a thin, bendable tube with a tiny camera and a light at the end. The doctor gently inserts the tube into the rectum and moves it up into the sigmoid colon. The camera sends high-quality images to a video screen in the exam room, allowing the doctor to clearly see the lining of your intestine and look for any unusual signs.

What Can a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Detect?

Doctors use a flexible sigmoidoscopy examination to find the hidden cause of certain digestive problems. This test can help detect several issues in the lower colon, including:

Bleeding from the rectum
Swelling, redness, or inflammation
Long-lasting diarrhea or severe abdominal pain
Polyps, which are small abnormal growths on the lining of the colon
Early warning signs of lower colon cancer

How Long Does a Sigmoidoscopy Take?

Most of the time, the actual flexible sigmoidoscopy procedure takes only 10 to 20 minutes. However, you’ll need to arrive at the clinic a little early to fill out paperwork and get ready in an exam room. After the test, you might stay for a short observation period, especially if you’ve received medicine to help you relax. Overall, you can expect to spend about an hour or two at the clinic from start to finish.

How to Prepare for a Sigmoidoscopy

Proper preparation is highly important for a successful exam. Your colon needs to be empty so that the doctor can see the lining clearly. Your doctor will give you specific written instructions, which may include a special diet and taking a laxative or using an enema at home.

When Should I Stop Eating Before a Sigmoidoscopy?

Typically, you’ll need to switch to a clear liquid diet the day before your flexible sigmoidoscopy examination. This means you should stop eating solid foods about 24 hours before your test. Clear liquids include plain water, clear broth, apple juice, and plain gelatin.

You must avoid any red or purple liquids. These dark colors can look like blood in your colon and confuse the test results. Your doctor will tell you exactly when to stop drinking all liquids before you arrive for the exam.

How Painful Is a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Without Sedation?

The exam can cause some cramping or a feeling of pressure in your lower belly. However, it’s usually not severely painful. Because the test is short and focuses only on the lower part of the colon, many people choose to have it performed without sedation. If you’re worried about discomfort, you can talk to your doctor beforehand. They can provide medicine to help you relax during the test.

Doctor Explaining a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Procedure to Examine the Large Intestine in Atlanta

What to Expect from a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

We don't want you to worry about undergoing this procedure, but our specialists do understand the apprehension you might feel. However, it only takes roughly 15 minutes to perform. It is the first giant step toward getting to the source of your symptoms, many of which could have been plaguing you for years. Knowledge is the best defense against fear, so here’s what you can expect from a flexible sigmoidoscopy:

First, GI Specialists of Georgia might administer a sedative and pain medication through an IV.
Then, we’ll ask you to lie on your side on an exam table. Most of the time, our specialists ask you to move your knees to your chest.
Next, our specialist inserts a sigmoidoscope (a soft, flexible tool) into your rectum.
After inserting the sigmoidoscope, we use the light and tube in the sigmoidoscope to pump air into your colon. As it does, we’re able to gain a clearer view of the colon’s lining.
In addition to the light and hollow tube, the sigmoidoscope also contains a camera, which allows our doctors to study the inside of your colon.
If needed, we might take samples or biopsies which performing the procedure.
After the procedure, you cannot drive – if administered a sedative or IV drip – and you might be bloated, feel cramping or discomfort, and pass gas. Walking might help relieve the pain.

Follow These Instructions if Taking a Tap Water Enema

Depending on the patient, we either prescribe a tap water or fleet enema. Below are the instructions for the tap water enema. It is critical you follow all the instructions found herein, as ignoring steps can put the success of the procedure in jeopardy.

Seven days before your procedure, please purchase two enema bags from the pharmacy of your choice.
One day before the flexible sigmoidoscopy, begin a clear liquid diet and stick to it for the entire day.
On the same day, take one of the enema bags before bedtime.
On the day of the procedure, remain on the clear liquid diet until three hours before the procedure.
Take any heart or blood pressure medications with a small sip of water.
Before leaving the house for the appointment, take the other tap water enema bag.

If We Request a Fleet Enema, Be Sure to Follow Instructions

If we prescribe a fleet enema instead of a tap water enema, then there are procedures you’ll need to follow to ensure the success of the procedure. They are as follows:

Seven days before the sigmoidoscopy, purchase two fleet enemas and 5mg Dulcolax laxative tablets from any pharmacy.
One day before your procedure, we ask you to remain on a clear liquid diet for the entire day
At 6 p.m., please take two Dulcolax tablets
Before bedtime, use one fleet enema
On the day of your procedure, remain on the clear liquid diet until three hours before the procedure
If you take blood pressure or heart medication, do so with a small sip of water.
Lastly, take the other fleet enema just before you leave.

Differences Between a Sigmoidoscopy and a Colonoscopy

A flexible sigmoidoscopy and a standard colonoscopy are two different tests. Your doctor will review your medical history and help you decide which one is right for your health needs.

Scope of the Exam – A flexible sigmoidoscopy only checks the rectum and the lower third of the colon. A colonoscopy examines the entire large intestine.
Preparation – Bowel prep for a sigmoidoscopy is usually much easier and faster than for a full colonoscopy.
Sedation – A full colonoscopy almost always requires heavy sedation. A sigmoidoscopy often doesn’t require sedation at all.

Benefits of a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

There are several key benefits to flexible sigmoidoscopy over other exams. First, it’s a very fast procedure. Second, the preparation at home is generally less intense than the prep for a full colonoscopy.

Because it’s often done without sedation, you can usually drive yourself home afterward and get right back to your daily routine. Most importantly, it’s a highly effective tool for finding dangerous polyps and preventing lower colon cancer.

Contact Us for a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy in Atlanta

If you’re experiencing stomach pain, notice changes in your bowel habits, or simply need a routine screening, GI Specialists of Georgia is here to help. Contact us today if you have more questions about the flexible sigmoidoscopy or want to schedule an appointment in the Atlanta area.