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    Sigmoidoscopy

    A sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic test for examining the sigmoid colon, the lower part of your large intestine, which is close to your rectum and anus. This test can help diagnose symptoms like diarrhoea, belly pain, constipation, bleeding, and polyps (abnormal growths). It is also used for taking tissue samples, or biopsies, and removing polyps or haemorrhoids.

    Sigmoidoscopy is a screening test for colon and rectal cancer. It is performed with a slender, flexible tube called a sigmoidoscope, which has a light and a camera. The tube is inserted into your anus and moved slowly through your rectum into the lower colon. Air is blown into the colon to improve visibility.

    At Apollo Hospital in Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, our specialists are highly skilled in performing sigmoidoscopy. With expert doctors, state-of-the-art technology, and exceptional success rates, we are the premier hospital for sigmoidoscopy in Hyderabad.

    Conditions That Can Be Diagnosed With Sigmoidoscopy

    A sigmoidoscopy can diagnose various conditions in your lower colon, including:

    • Polyps
    • Tumours
    • Ulcers
    • Inflammation
    • Haemorrhoids
    • Diverticula
    • Strictures

    Additionally, it is used to examine symptoms such as alterations in bowel habits, abdominal pain in the lower region, anal itching, blood or mucus in stool, decreased iron levels, and reduced blood counts. Doctors suggest starting screening at age 50 for both men and women.

    What Happens In Sigmoidoscopy?

    During a sigmoidoscopy:

    • Your doctor will conduct a rectal exam to check for blood, mucus, or stool and gently enlarge your anus.
    • A lubricated tube will be slowly inserted into your anus and moved into your rectum and lower colon.
    • Air may be injected into your bowel for better visibility, and a suction device may remove liquid stool.
    • Sometimes, a sigmoidoscopy is done with an anoscopy or proctoscopy to check your anus and rectum more thoroughly.
    • Mild discomfort may occur, including the urge to have a bowel movement, muscle spasms, or lower belly pain. Deep breaths can help ease any discomfort.

    Pre-Operative Care For Sigmoidoscopy

    Your doctor will thoroughly explain the procedure and address any questions you have. Before the test, you will sign a consent form after carefully reading it and asking any necessary questions.

    Be sure to inform your doctor if:

    • You are pregnant or think you might be.
    • You have any sensitivities or allergies to medications, latex, tape, or anaesthesia.
    • You take any medications, including over-the-counter drugs, prescription medicines, vitamins, herbs, or supplements.
    • You have a history of bleeding disorders.
    • You take blood-thinning medications, aspirin, ibuprofen, or other drugs affecting blood clotting; you may need to stop these before the procedure.

    Your doctor will provide instructions on how to prepare your bowel for the test. This might involve taking a laxative, using an enema or rectal laxative suppository, or drinking a special fluid. You will also receive specific instructions regarding fasting or following a special diet before the test.

    Post-Operative Care For Sigmoidoscopy

    After the procedure, you can resume your normal diet and activities, unless your doctor advises otherwise.

    If a biopsy or polyp was removed, you may notice a small amount of blood in your bowel movements, which should stop within a day or so.

    It is common to experience increased flatulence and gas pains after the test. Walking and moving around can help alleviate mild discomfort.

    Contact your doctor if you experience:

    • Fever or chills
    • Rectal bleeding lasting longer than a day
    • Abdominal pain or swelling
    • Inability to pass gas

    Best Gastroenterology Doctors in Jubilee Hills

    Apollo Doctor

    Dr. Raghu D K

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    Dr. Bharath Kumar A

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    Dr. Ankith Vijay Agarwal

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    FAQ's

    A flexible sigmoidoscopy usually lasts around 15 minutes, though it may take a bit longer if biopsies are taken.

    Complications after sigmoidoscopy can include continued bleeding post-biopsy, inflammation of the abdominal lining, or a rare intestinal wall perforation. Interferences during the procedure may occur due to factors like laxative enemas before the test, residual barium from prior colon tests, inadequate bowel preparation, or issues restricting tube movement, such as strictures or adhesions. Rectal bleeding can also affect visibility during the procedure.

    You will typically receive your results within 2 weeks, either directly or through your doctor, or during a follow-up appointment. The endoscopist will inform you immediately if they have taken any biopsies or removed polyps.
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