Endoscopy
A short camera test of the rectum and lower colon for rectal bleeding, piles, inflammation and polyps - usually without full bowel preparation.
Overview
A flexible sigmoidoscopy examines the rectum and the sigmoid colon - the last part of the large bowel. A thin, flexible tube with a camera is passed gently through the back passage while you lie on your side.
It is a quicker and simpler test than a full colonoscopy and is often used to find the cause of fresh rectal bleeding, to look for inflammation (proctitis or colitis) and to check for polyps in the lower bowel. Biopsies can be taken if needed.
Where: Done at Medigest clinic, West Punjabi Bagh.
Endoscopy
A flexible sigmoidoscopy examines roughly the last 50-60 cm of the large bowel. Many causes of fresh bleeding, such as haemorrhoids, fissures, proctitis and polyps in the rectum, are found in this segment, so a sigmoidoscopy is often enough to explain the symptoms. Because it needs only an enema and usually no sedation, it is quicker and simpler than a full colonoscopy.
Sigmoidoscopy does not examine the upper part of the colon. If you have symptoms such as anaemia, weight loss, a change in bowel habit or a family history of colon cancer, the doctor may advise a full colonoscopy instead, or after the sigmoidoscopy.
The sigmoidoscopy procedure at Medigest is done by Dr. Shrihari Anikhindi in a short appointment. The findings are explained straight after the test, and biopsy reports, if taken, are reviewed at follow-up. Treatment options for conditions such as piles, fissures or proctitis are discussed in the same consultation.
Sigmoidoscopy is a low-risk test. Mild cramping or bloating may occur. Bleeding after a biopsy is uncommon and usually minor. Please inform the clinic if you take blood thinners.
Most people need only an enema before the test, given at the clinic or at home as advised. A light breakfast is usually allowed. Tell the clinic if you take blood thinners or have a heart valve condition. Allow about an hour for the visit, including time to discuss the findings.
Book a consultation or request an online consultation to discuss whether Sigmoidoscopy is right for you.
Before & after
General guidance - the clinic gives you personalised instructions when you book.
On the day
You lie on your left side with knees bent.
The scope is passed gently; you may feel pressure or cramping.
Small samples can be taken without pain.
FAQ
Sigmoidoscopy looks only at the rectum and lower colon and needs less preparation. Colonoscopy examines the whole large bowel.
Most patients do not need sedation for sigmoidoscopy, as the test is short and causes only mild discomfort.
Sometimes. If findings or symptoms suggest a problem higher up in the bowel, the doctor may advise a full colonoscopy.
Most patients feel pressure, mild cramps or the urge to pass wind rather than pain. The test is short, and the discomfort settles soon after it ends.
Yes. Once the doctor has confirmed piles and ruled out other causes of bleeding, treatment options such as diet changes, medicines or procedures for piles are discussed at the same consultation.
Usually not. As sigmoidoscopy is normally done without sedation, most people go back to their usual activities the same day.
Book a consultation first by phone, WhatsApp or the online form. Done at Medigest clinic, West Punjabi Bagh. The clinic will share preparation instructions.
Related
A camera examination of the whole large intestine to find the cause of bleeding, change in bowel habit or anaemia - and to find and remove polyps early.
Learn moreChecks how the rectum and anal sphincter muscles work together - to find the cause of chronic constipation or leakage.
Learn moreAt clinicA short camera test of the food pipe, stomach and duodenum to find the cause of acidity, pain, bleeding or swallowing problems - with biopsies when needed.
Learn moreAppointments
Visit the clinic in West Punjabi Bagh, or book an online consultation from home.
