Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

Flexible sigmoidoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure to evaluate the lower 1/3 of the large intestine (colon). Compared to a colonoscopy, which evaluates the health of the entire colon, flexible sigmoidoscopy is a more limited examination, taking less time and less preparation. It is useful for evaluating minor anal and rectal symptoms, such as hemorrhoidal bleeding and limited ulcerative colitis.

Preparation for a flexible sigmoidoscopy involves a gentle enema cleanse (done at home by the patient) and a period of fasting. You will be given detailed dietary instructions by your doctor. 

• An intravenous line will be placed in your arm, through which the anesthesiologist will administer gentle sedation, allowing you to sleep the entire time and have no discomfort.
• You will lay on your left side while the gastroenterologist inserts the colonoscope through your anus to examine the tissues lining the sigmoid colon and rectum while viewing a video monitor and capturing images.
• If polyps or abnormal tissue are found, they may be removed or biopsied during the procedure.
• Most flexible sigmoidoscopies take 5-10 minutes.

• You’ll spend 20-30 minutes in a recovery area while the sedation wears off, and you can eat immediately.
• The gastroenterologist will speak with you before you go home.
• If any biopsies were taken, those will come back in a few days.
• Because of the anesthesia, you may need someone to escort you home. You should plan to take it easy the rest of the day, and you cannot drive a car following the procedure until the next day.

We perform flexible sigmoidoscopies in our three state-of-the-art facilities: The Endoscopy Center of New York, Carnegie Hill Endoscopy Center, and Manhattan Endoscopy Center.