Sigmoidoscopy (Anoscopy, Proctoscopy): How It Is Done

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How It Is Done

You will usually lie on your left side during the test. You may also be asked to kneel on the table with your bottom raised in the air.

Once you are in position:

• Your health professional will gently insert a gloved finger into your anus to check for tenderness or blockage. For men, your health professional will also check the condition of the prostate gland.
• The lubricated scope is then inserted. The scope is moved slowly forward into the rectum and lower colon. During a sigmoidoscopy, puffs of air sometimes are blown through the scope to open the colon so that your health professional can see more clearly.
• Suction may be used to remove watery stool, enema liquid, mucus, or blood through the scope.
• Once your health professional has moved the scope forward as far as possible, it is slowly withdrawn while tissue is carefully inspected.
• Your health professional may also insert tiny instruments (forceps, loops, swabs) through the scope to collect tissue samples (biopsy) or to remove growths. Tissue samples may be sent to a laboratory for examination.

See the following pictures:

• Step 1: The sigmoidoscope is inserted .
• Step 2: The health professional examines the wall of the sigmoid colon .

After the scope is removed, your anal area will be cleaned with tissues. If you are having cramps, passing gas may help relieve them.

The entire examination usually takes 5 to 15 minutes, slightly longer if tissue samples are taken or if polyps are removed.

If you received a sedative during the test, do not drive, operate machinery, or sign legal documents for 24 hours after the test. Arrange to have someone drive you home after the test.

After the test you may resume your regular diet, unless your health professional gives you other directions. Be sure to drink plenty of liquids to replace those you have lost during the preparation for the sigmoidoscopy.

Last updated:	May 08, 2007
Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Jerome B. Simon, MD, FRCPC, FACP - Gastroenterology
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer