A flexible sigmoidoscopy is a test that involves passing a thin, flexible tube with a light on the end into your back passage (anus) to examine the lower part of your large bowel. The procedure can be uncomfortable, but most people manage without sedation.
If you feel anxious or if your bowel is very inflamed, you may be offered a light sedative. The test itself usually takes 5 – 10 minutes, but you should expect to be in the department for two to three hours.
The purpose of the procedure is to find the cause of your symptoms. Small tissue samples (biopsies) may be taken from the bowel lining. If small polyps are found, they may be removed or biopsied.
Haemorrhoids (piles) may sometimes be treated during the procedure using rubber band ligation, which is usually relatively painless. A healthcare professional will discuss this with you and provide aftercare instructions if needed.
Preparing for your procedure
If you receive sedation, you must have someone collect you, take you home and stay with you for at least 24 hours.
There is no need to fast before the test. You may have a light breakfast or lunch before arrival.
Your bowel must be as clean as possible. You will either be sent an enema to use at home or given one by a healthcare professional when you arrive. Your appointment time includes preparation.
After your procedure
If you have had a sedative, you may have difficulty remembering. DO NOT drive a vehicle, go to work, use machinery, drink alcohol or sign any legally binding documents for 24 hours. Further advice about your condition will be given by your own GP or at your next clinic appointment if one is planned.
Following the procedure, a copy of the procedure report will be sent to your GP within the next 10-14 days. You may resume any prescription medicines and normal diet unless otherwise instructed by a healthcare professional.
Possible side effects
After an examination of the large bowel with sedation, you should go home and rest. After effects, if any, are usually minimal and may include the following:
Abdominal discomfort
If you have any abdominal discomfort, this is most likely due to wind. This should not last long as passing wind will alleviate this discomfort. Mild painkillers can be taken e.g. paracetamol, if necessary. Peppermint oil preparations or peppermint tea can also help.
If you develop severe pain and/or vomiting, please contact your GP Practice.
Discomfort at the injection site
You may experience a slight discomfort in the arm into which the sedative injection was given. A cold icepack may give some relief, however, should any swelling, tenderness or redness of the injection site become increasingly uncomfortable, please advise your GP Practice.
Bleeding
If a biopsy or removal of a polyp has been performed, you may notice small traces of blood from your rectum. This is NOT abnormal. However, if this persists or increases in amount, please contact your GP Practice. Your bowel habits should return to normal within two to three days.
If you suddenly lose a lot of fresh blood, become faint, pale and sweaty, you should contact your GP Practice or call NHS 24 on 111 and explain your symptoms. If you have difficulty getting through to NHS 24 and your symptoms are as above, you should attend the Emergency Department at Forth Valley Royal Hospital to be assessed as you may need to be admitted.
