Flexible Sigmoidoscopy - Colon and Rectum Examination

Understanding the Colon and the Rectum

The colon and the rectum are integral parts of the digestive system, forming the large intestine. They play a crucial role in processing waste, absorbing water, and facilitating the excretion of faeces. The sigmoid colon, specifically, is the last part of the colon before the rectum and is often the site of various health issues.

When Does Surgery Become Necessary

Flexible sigmoidoscopy becomes necessary when symptoms such as abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, chronic diarrhoea, and unexplained weight loss occur. These symptoms could indicate conditions like ulcers, polyps, or cancer in the colon or rectum. Early detection through this procedure can lead to more effective treatment and better outcomes.

Overview of the Surgical Procedure

Flexible sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that allows doctors to examine the rectum and the lower part of the colon, known as the sigmoid colon. A thin, flexible tube with a light and tiny camera on one end, called a sigmoidoscope, is inserted into the rectum to visualise the internal lining of the rectum and sigmoid colon.

Surgical Procedures Explained

Flexible-Sigmoidoscopy Colon and Rectum Examination (Diagnostic): This procedure involves the use of a sigmoidoscope to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. It can detect irritated or swollen tissue, ulcers, polyps, and cancer.

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Causes of the Issues

The need for a flexible sigmoidoscopy can arise from various causes, including chronic gastrointestinal issues, lifestyle factors, genetic predisposition, and age. Conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, diverticular disease, and colorectal cancer can also necessitate this procedure.

Conditions Warranting Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

Flexible sigmoidoscopy is recommended for individuals experiencing symptoms like persistent abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, or unexplained weight loss. It's also used as a screening tool for individuals over 50 or those with a family history of colorectal cancer.

Related Concerns

Complications associated with the conditions that flexible sigmoidoscopy addresses include anemia due to chronic bleeding, severe abdominal pain, bowel obstruction, and increased risk of colorectal cancer.

Treatment Approaches

Treatment options depend on the findings of the flexible sigmoidoscopy. They may include medication, lifestyle changes, further diagnostic tests, or surgical interventions such as polyp removal or colectomy.

Alternatives to Surgery

Non-surgical treatment options include dietary modifications, medication, and other types of endoscopic procedures. However, the suitability of these alternatives depends on the specific condition and its severity.

Service Overview

Flexible sigmoidoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that provides a visual examination of the rectum and sigmoid colon. It's a valuable tool for diagnosing gastrointestinal issues and screening for colorectal cancer.

Benefits and Risks of Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

The procedure is beneficial for early detection and diagnosis of colorectal conditions, potentially leading to more effective treatment. Risks, although rare, include bowel perforation, bleeding, and adverse reactions to the sedative.

Preparation for Surgery

Preparation involves dietary changes and bowel cleansing. Patients may need to adjust medication schedules and are usually advised to follow a clear liquid diet a day before the procedure.

Pre-surgery Procedures and Checks

On the day of the procedure, patients are typically asked about their medical history and current medications. Vital signs are checked, and the procedure is explained in detail.

Step-by-Step Guide to Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

1. The patient is positioned on their side on the examination table.
2. A sigmoidoscope is gently inserted into the rectum.
3. The sigmoidoscope inflates the colon with air to provide a better view.
4. The doctor examines the colon.
5. If necessary, tissue samples or polyps are removed for further testing.
6. The sigmoidoscope is removed. ### Postoperative Care Patients can usually resume their normal diet and activities after the procedure. They may experience some bloating or mild cramping, which should resolve quickly. ### Recovery and Rehabilitation Recovery from a flexible sigmoidoscopy is typically quick, with most patients resuming normal activities the same day. If polyps were removed or a biopsy was performed, the doctor may recommend a follow-up appointment to discuss the results. ## References
7. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Flexible Sigmoidoscopy. [https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diagnostic-tests/flexible-sigmoidoscopy]
8. Mayo Clinic. Flexible Sigmoidoscopy. [https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/flexible-sigmoidoscopy/about/pac-20394189]
9. Advocate Health Care. Flexible Sigmoidoscopy. [https://www.advocatehealth.com/health-services/digestive-health-center/services-treatments/flexible-sigmoidoscopy]
10. Aurora Health Care. Flexible Sigmoidoscopy. [https://www.aurorahealthcare.org/services/gastroenterology-colorectal-surgery/colorectal-cancer-screening/flexible-sigmoidoscopy]
11. UpToDate. Patient education: Flexible sigmoidoscopy (Beyond the Basics). [https://www.uptodate.com/contents/flexible-sigmoidoscopy-beyond-the-basics/print]

• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Flexible Sigmoidoscopy. [https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diagnostic-tests/flexible-sigmoidoscopy]
• Mayo Clinic. Flexible Sigmoidoscopy. [https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/flexible-sigmoidoscopy/about/pac-20394189]
• Advocate Health Care. Flexible Sigmoidoscopy. [https://www.advocatehealth.com/health-services/digestive-health-center/services-treatments/flexible-sigmoidoscopy]
• Aurora Health Care. Flexible Sigmoidoscopy. [https://www.aurorahealthcare.org/services/gastroenterology-colorectal-surgery/colorectal-cancer-screening/flexible-sigmoidoscopy]
• UpToDate. Patient education: Flexible sigmoidoscopy (Beyond the Basics). [https://www.uptodate.com/contents/flexible-sigmoidoscopy-beyond-the-basics/print]