SIGMOIDOSCOPY

A sigmoidoscopy is similar to a colonoscopy - except that it looks only at the lower part of your colon, while a colonoscopy looks at the entire large intestine. In this sense, a sigmoidoscopy is less invasive. The method of doing a sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy is similar, where there is an insertion of a soft, thin and flexible tube via the anus. The tube has a built-in camera that allows the doctor to examine the lower part of your colon.

 

Generally, doctors would recommend colonoscopy as a screening test as opposed to a sigmoidoscopy as more of the colon can be screened, and both you and your doctor will have peace of mind. If a polyp or cancer is found in the sigmoid colon (the lower part of your colon), then there is a risk that there may be polyps, tumours, or lesions missed in the upper part of the colon. A colonoscopy will then be suggested by your doctor to gain a more holistic understanding of your colon.

 

A sigmoidoscopy is more comfortable for the patient as the bowel preparation required is not as extensive as a colonoscopy. Typically, fleet enemas will be required on the day before, and the day of scope. Bowel preparation in the form of drinking laxatives may not be necessary.