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Whats the difference between a colonoscopy and a flexible sigmoidoscopy?

April 26, 2017Colonoscopy difference flexible sigmoidoscopy

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Whats the difference between a colonoscopy and a flexible sigmoidoscopy?

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Both procedures require the use of a thin, flexible endoscope. A colonoscopy examines the entire colon (large intestine). This is an outpatient procedure performed with the patient under sedation. If a polyp is found during a colonoscopy it can be removed. A flexible sigmoidoscopy involves a shorter scope and examines about one-third of the colon. This is usually done in the office without sedation. During this procedure a polyp can be biopsied but not removed. If polyps are found during a sigmoidoscopy, a colonoscopy may be recommended.