Flexible Sigmoidoscopy in Indianapolis, IN
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Find a ProviderWhat exactly is a flexible sigmoidoscopy?
A flexible sigmoidoscopy is an endoscopic diagnostic technique during which a thin, long, bendable tube, or “scope,” is positioned into the rectum and then progressed through the lower third of the large intestine. As such, this exam has some limitations in that the entirety of the colon will not be seen. The tube is equipped with a light and a camera on its end which allows the doctor to examine the colon's lining. A sigmoidoscopy may be used to:
- Loose or watery stools
- Diagnose the cause of gastrointestinal symptoms like:
- Bleeding
- Painful abdomen
- Abnormal x-ray results
- As a screening tool for colon cancer and polyps.
Our digestive health providers perform flexible sigmoidoscopies for Indianapolis, IN patients. If you are suffering from any troubling symptoms in relation to your digestive tract such as the above listed, then contact Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology to receive help in deciding if a flexible sigmoidoscopy could be a helpful test for you.
What should I expect the day before my flexible sigmoidoscopy?
You will receive directions from your GI specialist in regard to the required bowel prep to perform in advance of your exam. The majority of individuals will be on clear liquids all day, the day before the procedure. There are a number of individual types of laxatives to flush the colon. It is of the utmost importance that you adhere to the instructions given to you by your Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology specialist. In addition, there will be instructions pertaining to your medications. In most cases, any medications will be continued as usual. However, in certain circumstances, especially in patients on blood thinners (i.e. Coumadin®, warfarin, Plavix®, aspirin, NSAIDs) and in diabetics, individual direction will be given. You will be told not to take anything by mouth any later than midnight with an exception for some medications.
What should I expect on the day of my flexible sigmoidoscopy?
Plan to be told to present at the endoscopy center 1 to 1.5 hours prior to your flexible sigmoidoscopy. This will allow adequate time to complete all forms and get prepared for the exam. You'll be asked to don a medical gown. Usually, no IV will be started since, usually, sedation is not given with this procedure. You could be connected to technology that will permit the staff and provider to monitor your pulse, heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, oxygen levels, and electrocardiogram during and following the exam.
Once in the exam room, you'll be asked to lie down on your left side of the bed. The gastroenterologist will carry out a rectal exam. The sigmoidoscope will then be slowly placed into the rectum. The scope will be carefully advanced through the sigmoid colon. A small bit of air is inserted through the tube into the colon to assist in the physician's visualization. Any liquid still in the colon following the preparation can be washed and removed through the scope. Depending on the findings of the exam, a few things can be done during the procedure including removal of polyps, control of bleeding, and biopsies. At the end of the procedure, all possible remaining fluid and air are suctioned out of the colon by way of the scope. Depending on the results, the procedure takes approximately 5 – 15 minutes to conduct.
Because anesthesia is not usually needed after the procedure is finished, the patient is asked to change back into their clothes and is released from the endoscopy center. If sedation is not needed, you will be able to perform your normal activities as well as drive. The majority of patients are able to eat and drink regularly after their release from the endoscopy unit, however, individualized directions in regard to activity, eating, and medications will be provided to the patient prior to discharge. Following the exam, the doctor and/or nurse will go over the findings of the procedure with you. You will also go home with a typed report. The patient will be made aware of any biopsy results in 7 days or less.
What are the risks of a flexible sigmoidoscopy?
Ordinarily, sigmoidoscopy is an extremely safe procedure. In all, negative side effects are experienced by less than 1% of cases. The majority of complications are not life-threatening, however, should a complication occur, it might necessitate surgery and/or hospitalization. In advance of the procedure, a consent form will be reviewed with the you by the staff. Should any concerns or questions come up, these may be discussed with your specialist before the beginning of the procedure.
Bleeding could occur with biopsies and the removal of polyps. Again, significant bleeding which could require hospitalization or a blood transfusion is extremely unusual. Still, bleeding may happen at the time of the exam or as long as two weeks after the procedure in the event that a polyp is excised.
Perforation or puncture of the colon may take place. This can be noticed at the time of the exam, or it might not become obvious until a short time later. In most cases, a perforation will require surgery and hospitalization. This is an atypical complication, even in the event that polyps are excised. It is imperative that the patient inform the provider’s office promptly if symptoms become present following the procedure such as worsening abdominal pain, fever or bleeding.
Just like any other test, a sigmoidoscopy is not always perfect. There is a small, recognized chance that abnormalities including polyps and cancers can be overlooked at the time of the procedure. It is crucial to remain vigilant and to maintain check-ups with your physicians as directed and inform them of any new or ongoing symptoms. Please consult with your Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology doctor in the event that you think of any concerns or questions.
What are the alternatives to a flexible sigmoidoscopy?
To a large degree, any alternatives to the exam will be dependent upon the cause of needing the sigmoidoscopy in the first place. There exist several x-rays which can evaluate the colon including a barium enema or virtual CT scan. These tests are however only diagnostic exams. Mitigation of any identified abnormalities will call for colonoscopy, surgery, or sigmoidoscopy. To learn more regarding flexible sigmoidoscopy in Indianapolis, IN, or about your options for diagnosis and treatment of your condition, we urge you to contact our GI providers.
Advanced diagnostic testing
A flexible sigmoidoscopy might assist in identifying the root cause of worrisome gastroenterology symptoms such as diarrhea, bleeding, and abdominal pain. If you begin presenting with any of these symptoms, connect with a skilled GI specialist immediately. You can locate a local gastroenterology physician through Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology. Our network strives to provide the utmost in patient-centered care and clinical standards. To learn more about receiving a flexible sigmoidoscopy in Indianapolis, IN, or another endoscopic procedure, contact our providers without delay.
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy FAQs
How accurate is flexible sigmoidoscopy in detecting colon problems?
Flexible sigmoidoscopy is a useful procedure for identifying issues in the lower colon, including polyps, cancers, and inflammatory bowel disease. However, it only examines the sigmoid colon and rectum, so it won't detect problems in the upper colon. For a complete examination of the entire colon, a colonoscopy may be advised.
How often should I have a flexible sigmoidoscopy for colon cancer screening?
The frequency of flexible sigmoidoscopy for colon cancer screening depends on individual risk factors, including age, family history, and personal health. Typically, for those at average risk, it may be suggested every 5 – 10 years starting at age 45. Your doctor will offer tailored recommendations based on your specific situation.
What should I do if I experience symptoms after a flexible sigmoidoscopy?
After a flexible sigmoidoscopy, you might feel mild symptoms like bloating or gas. If you experience more serious issues such as persistent pain, heavy bleeding, or a fever, contact your healthcare provider immediately. These could be signs of complications requiring prompt attention.
Reviews
I’ve been going to Dr Morelli for 18 years! I have had several colonoscopies by Dr Morelli and he is absolutely excellent in his field! He has a great bed side manner and makes you feel comfortable and safe! 👍❤️
I had to go in for a routine procedure (endoscopy) to determine if I had an autoimmune disease associated with some symptoms I’ve been having. Procedure went well, no concerns/complaints and I didn’t remember a thing about the procedure itself. Bill (a nurse), Adam (the anesthesiologist) and a plethora of other nurses were fantastic. I had one poor experience. The second from last nurse I had made comments about me coming down from anesthesia, making comments like “don’t act high, we didn’t give you narcotics”. I personally get very anxious/nervous when coming down from any kind of sedation and when I do, I tend to a nervous giggle/twitch from anxiety. My fiancé was in the room and immediately his ears perked up, and he started listening in. Then shortly after, I was asking questions about the procedure because they stated they didn’t see anything, and I was told by that same nurse that it was extremely unlikely that I had this condition because I was “too big” and didn’t fit the criteria. Which is 100% untrue (she did not use the words fat, but the comment was suggestive enough for me to understand what she meant by it). I am a little larger than average, about 165-175lbs on a bad day, and her comments absolutely crushed me because I’ve been on a weight loss journey and have lost about 30/40lbs in the past year. She made similar comments of how I would’ve had this condition since I was young, and that these people are “sticky skinny, pale and anemic” (which I was all of those for years until I gave birth to my last child) and that these conditions are “lifelong” and “don’t suddenly appear” (I was told the opposite by my physician). All in all, it was a pleasant experience until the very end. I may have to get another procedure done here and I would trust them enough to confirm a diagnosis. But some, I’d recommend, should take another course on bedside manner.
Great service/customer care . everyone there was very helpful and considerate starting at the check-in desk . The doctor was very easy to talk to and seemed truly interested in my case. everyone there was very kind and professional
Dr Crane is great
Dr.roberts I highly recommend him. He is thorough and gives enough time with patients
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