What is a sigmoidoscopy?
During a sigmoidoscopy, a doctor closely inspects the lower parts of the colon, called the sigmoid colon and the descending colon, for signs of cancer or polyps. Polyps are small growths which can over time become cancer. The doctor uses a slender, flexible, hollow, lighted tube about the thickness of a finger. This “sigmoidoscope” is gently eased inside the colon and has a tiny video camera, which sends pictures to a TV screen. Small puffs of air are put in the colon to keep it open and allow the doctor to see clearly. The exam takes 15 to 20 minutes and the patient usually doesn’t need medicine.
