Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

Flexible sigmoidoscopy (also known as limited colonoscopy) allows inspection of the lining of the rectum and lower part of the colon. It uses a flexible tube with a “video camera” at the tip. The instrument is about 1 cm in diameter. It is an important examination used for the diagnosis and treatment of bowel conditions.

Your doctor will tell you what preparation is required. If you are not receiving a sedative medication for the procedure, there is no need to fast, prior to the procedure. If your doctor plans to give you sedation for the procedure you will need to fast which will require no food for 6 hours and no liquids 2 hours prior to the procedure. A small enema (a solution that is inserted into the rectum to clean the lower bowel) is the only preparation and it is given just before the procedure. It is unusual to require a full bowel clean out prior to this procedure. 

Please inform your doctor prior to the procedure about medications you are taking:

• Any anticoagulants (particularly blood thinning medications) such as Warfarin, Aspirin, Clopidogrel (Plavix), or Dabigatran (Pradaxa). 
• Please bring a list of your current medications with you to your appointment. 

You will lie on your side while your doctor advances the endoscope through the rectum and colon. You might experience a feeling of pressure, bloating or cramping during the procedure. This is normal. 

SEDATION

Sedation is generally used during the procedure. It is important that you do not drive or operate machinery for 12 hours after your procedure. Your expected time of stay in hospital is about three - four hours. Please arrange for someone to drive you home afterwards. You are not permitted, by law, to drive yourself. For safety reasons, if you are travelling on public transport, or in a taxi, please arrange for a support person to travel with you.

Flexible sigmoidoscopy and biopsy are very safe when performed by doctors who are specially trained and experienced in these endoscopic procedures. Complications occur rarely, and could include problems such as: bleeding from a biopsy, or polyp removal site and damage to the wall of the bowel (perforation). These complications are uncommon, but it is important for you to recognise early signs of possible complications.

Contact your doctor or the hospital if you notice:

• Severe abdominal pain.
• Fevers and chills.
• Rectal bleeding.

To help you prepare for your procedure a copy of key information is provided here for you to download and print.

• We advise you to apply to your insurance company for prior approval before your admission.
• Bring your health insurance prior approval letter to your appointment.
• With the exception of Southern Cross, once your account has been finalised, we will forward your invoice to your insurance company.
• If you do not have medical insurance or prior approval from your medical insurance, we will calculate an estimated total cost of your procedure and a deposit will be required on admission.  On completion of your stay your account will be processed and the amount adjusted accordingly. The total amount charged varies from patient to patient and any extra charges are to be settled on discharge.