21 March 2019 What is flexible sigmoidoscopy? Flexible sigmoidoscopy, also called pansigmoidoscopy or fibersigmoidoscopy, is an endoscopic examination that enables analysis of the inside of the rectum and the sigmoid colon. How is a flexible sigmoidoscopy carried out? Flexible sigmoidoscopy is performed with the patient lying on their left side, with their legs bent. A long, flexible tube of around 10mm in diameter, called a colonoscope , is inserted into the anus. At one end it has a video camera that transmits amplified, high-definition images to a monitor in the room where the scan is being performed. In this way the doctor can carry out a detailed examination of the inside of the rectum and the sigmoid colon as the apparatus travels through them. The colonoscope also has components that enable it to collect, without causing any pain, fragments of tissue (biopsy) , and to treat various types of lesions (for example, it can remove polyps). In general, flexible sigmoidoscopy is well tolerated and rarely causes any pain. However, the movement of the device through the body, together with the introduction of air, which is necessary to expand the organs and attain better images, may cause some discomfort . Therefore, this examination can be performed under anaesthesia , which significantly reduces the associated discomfort. Anaesthesia does not imply the admission of the person undergoing the procedure, who will be free to leave the site shortly after the end of the examination. However, if the patient chooses to have the examination carried out while under anaesthesia, they should bring a companion who will be able to help, if necessary. In what situations is a flexible sigmoidoscopy carried out? It is always for the doctor to decide whether there is a need for a particular test, depending on the individual characteristics of each person and their complaints or illness. In general, flexible sigmoidoscopy is advised for the diagnosis of relatively simple problems together with more complex ones, in particular: Haemorrhoids; Fissures and fistulas; More severe inflammatory diseases; Malignant or pre-malignant lesions. How long does a flexible sigmoidoscopy take? A flexible sigmoidoscopy takes around 5 minutes on average. However, it may take longer, especially if there is a need for any additional procedures. After completion of an examination performed under anaesthesia, it will be necessary to wait a while until recovery is complete. This period should be spent resting in a place specifically provided for this purpose. The person may then leave the hospital. What are the limitations of a flexible sigmoidoscopy? As with any other technique, flexible sigmoidoscopy can miss lesions and diagnoses , even when the examination is carried out correctly. Are there any side effects, risks or complications associated with the carrying out of a flexible sigmoidoscopy? If the test is performed under anaesthesia, the effects usually disappear within a few hours. The introduction of air may result in a sensation of abdominal pressure and lead to flatulence for a few hours. The risks associated with carrying out a flexible sigmoidoscopy are rare , but they exist, as with any other examination in which devices or medicinal products are used. The incidence of these risks varies depending on: The individual under examination; Use of medicinal products; Any additional procedures that may be required. These risks include: Infection or complication arising from pre-existing diseases, or adverse reactions to the medicinal products administered; Intestinal perforation; Bleeding from the site of a biopsy. In order to reduce the risk of complications it is essential the physician is informed of: Allergies; Other pre-existing conditions; Ongoing treatments. At the hospitals and clinics of the Hospital da Luz network, there are gastroenterology specialists who can diagnose and treat digestive diseases and carry out any examinations that may be necessary. This article was written with the support of physicians and other clinical professionals from the Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
