Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

What Is Flexible Sigmoidoscopy?

A Flexible Sigmoidoscopy is an examination of the rectum and the lower end of the large bowel by means of a flexible tube (endoscope), which allows visualisation for distances of approximately 60cm.

The endoscope has thousands of tiny glass fibres within it allowing transmission of light to the tip. If polyps or other abnormalities are seen, then a sample can be taken for examination by the pathologist. The colon is checked for abnormalities such as the presence of blood, narrowing, diverticula (pockets) or inflammation.

Why would I need a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy?

Flexible sigmoidoscopy may be recommended for the colon:

• To look for causes of blood loss from the bowel
• To assess the extent of inflammation of the colon
• For screening purposes in people without symptoms to look for polyps* or colon cancer
• To see if the bowel has been affected by endometriosis
• Following colon surgery to check the bowel and any joins made in it.

*A polyp is a mass or lump on the wall of the colon (large intestine). It is an overgrowth of glandular cells in the lining of the colon. Adenomatous polyps have the potential to turn cancerous. This transition to cancer takes place over a period of years.

Examination

Flexible sigmoidoscopy is carried out on an outpatient basis. It is not a painful procedure but some discomfort may be felt when air is introduced into the bowel or the endoscope is manoeuvred around the corners of the bowel. The procedure usually lasts between 10 and 15 minutes and an enema will be required.

The procedure is generally well tolerated without sedation.

After the procedure, the results will be discussed with you and any samples taken will be sent to the laboratory. A report is usually available within three to four days and a copy will be sent to your General Practitioner. Sometimes there may be a small amount of blood in the bowel motions for up to four to five days after the examination.

Complications

Complications are rare. However, as with any diagnostic procedure there are potential risk factors to be considered:

• Bleeding - this can occur with any type of biopsy
• Perforation of the bowel - this may require surgical intervention. This occurs in less than 1 in 10,000 cases.

Follow Up

If, at the time of flexible endoscopy abnormalities such as polyps or bowel cancer are seen, then it is likely that the rest of the bowel will need examination. This is usually performed by means of colonoscopy which is performed at a later time.

If you do have a polyp you are in a high-risk group and are more likely to develop additional polyps. After a polyp is removed you are advised to have your colon examined again at regular intervals.

How do I get a referral?

Your GP can refer you for a flexible sigmoidoscopy or you may contact Intus directly to make an appointment 03 379 0555.

Relevant Links

Bowel Cancer
Colorectal Cancer Screening
Colonoscopy
Gastroscopy