A flexible sigmoidoscopy is a procedure that is used to see the inside of the sigmoid colon and rectum – the last part of the large bowel. A thin flexible tube is passed into the back passage into the lower colon (sigmoid colon). It is similar to, but not the same as, a colonoscopy. A sigmoidoscopy only examines the sigmoid colon (the last third of the colon) whereas a colonoscopy examines the whole large bowel (colon).
A sigmoidoscopy can be used to identify early signs of cancer, and can help diagnose unexplained changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, bleeding from the anus and weight loss.
Further information can be obtained:
Download Coastal Gastroenterology Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Information Sheet
If you require further information these links are helpful: