Font Size
A
A
A

Sigmoidoscopy (cont.)

During the Procedure

  • The doctor will have you lie down on your left side with your knees bent and pulled up slightly toward your head.
  • The doctor will examine your rectum first with a finger lubricated with special jelly. The tip of the scope is then lubricated with the same jelly and slowly inserted into your rectum.
  • The doctor will slowly advance the tube through your lower intestine. In order to help the doctor see, a small amount of air and water may be placed in the intestine through the end of the scope. If the doctor encounters a suspicious area of intestine, he or she may remove a small piece of the tissue for analysis. This is done with the same scope and is known as a biopsy.
  • The doctor will end the procedure and tell you the outcome of your study.



Next: After the Procedure »

Printer-Friendly Format  |  Email to a Friend

GI Disorders

Get the latest treatment options.

Are You Depressed? Take the Quiz


Read What Your Physician is Reading on eMedicine

Colon, Polyps »

A polyp is a small growth of tissue shaped like the head or stalk of a mushroom.

Read More on eMedicine »

Medical Dictionary