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ENDOSCOPIC PROCEDURES
FLEXIBLE SIGMOIDSCOPY
Sigmoidoscopy allows the physician to look inside the large intestine from the rectum through the last part of the colon, known as the sigmoid colon. It is similar to a Colonoscopy but much quicker and shorter in length since it examines only the lower third of the colon. Physicians may use this procedure to find the cause of diarrhea, abdominal pain, or constipation. Sigmoidoscopy is also useful to look for early signs of cancer, bleeding, inflammation, growths, or ulcerations.
When your physician orders this test in our office, your GI nurse will spend time with you to explain the procedure and to schedule a time convenient for you. The following points will be discussed and your questions carefully answered.
HOW DO I PREPARE FOR THE PROCEDURE?
For a thorough and safe examination, it will be essential for you to follow each step carefully.
You will be asked to have nothing to eat or drink for 6-8 hours before your sigmoidoscopy. Then an hour-and-a half before your scheduled examination time you will need to take two small, disposable Fleets enemas to clear out your colon. You will take one, wait 15-20 minutes to evacuate it, and then take the second in the same manner.
SHOULD I TAKE MY USUAL MEDICATION?
If you are taking Apirin or Coumadin, your GI nurse will generally ask you to discontinue them for three days before your sigmoidoscopy.
You may take your usual medications on the day before your procedure, with the exception of fiber supplements and Iron.
You will be able to take your regular medications while you are fasting with a few sips of water. Special instructions will be given for patients with chronic conditions like Diabetes.
WILL I BE ABLE TO DRIVE MYSELF HOME?
Yes. Sedation is not necessary for this simple examination and therefore you can drive immediately following your sigmoidoscopy.
WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF THE PROCEDURE?
Bleeding and puncture of the colon are possible complications of sigmoidoscopy. However, such complications are uncommon. Most patients experience nothing more than mild abdominal cramping and bloating.
WILL MY INSURANCE COMPANY PAY FOR SIGMOIDOSCOPY?
GI nurses are well aware of the insurance company’s requirements for payment. Most insurance companies, as well as Medicare and Medicaid, will pay for sigmoidoscopy for the reasons your physician orders it. All procedures are carefully precertified with your insurance company before your scheduled date. If there is any problem, you will be alerted. For patients without insurance coverage, arrangements can be made by contacting Coral Fournier, Patient Accounts Manager.
WHAT WILL HAPPEN THE DAY OF MY PROCEDURE?
On the day of your procedure one of our GI nurses, will greet you and escort you to the Center or to one of our office procedure rooms. You will be asked to put on a gown and relax on the examination table on your side.
When the physician is ready to begin, you will be reminded to take deep breaths if you feel any cramping sensations to help to relax the colon. If the examination becomes uncomfortable, your physician will want you to let him know. You will feel gentle pressure as he slowly threads the short, lighted tube into the rectum and colon. It is normal to feel as if you need to move your bowels, but this is only because of the body’s reaction to the scope. The scope will transmit an image onto the screen so your physician can carefully examine the lining of the sigmoid area. The scope will blow air into the colon which helps the physician to see better. If there is anything unusual in your colon, a small sample (biopsy) will be taken with tiny instruments passed through the scope. This tissue is then sent to the lab for testing. The sigmoidoscopy usually only takes about 10 minutes and you will be free to go home. You may resume your normal activites. Some patients may notice slight abdominal tenderness or bloating.
WHEN WILL I FIND OUT THE RESULTS OF MY PROCEDURE?
The results of the procedure will be explained to you as soon as it is completed. At this time your physician will suggest the next step in your treatment plan. You will, of course, be notified later of the results of any biopsies taken.
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