Flexible sigmoidoscopy
Flexible sigmoidoscopy
Flexible sigmoidoscopy (pronounced: flex-uh-bul sig-moi-dos-kuh-pee) is a medical procedure used to examine the lower part of the colon and rectum. The procedure is performed using a flexible sigmoidoscope, a long, flexible tube with a light and camera at the end.
Etymology
The term "sigmoidoscopy" is derived from the Greek words "sígmoeidḗs", meaning "sigma-shaped", and "skopos", meaning "to look at". The "flexible" part of the term refers to the flexible nature of the sigmoidoscope used in the procedure.
Procedure
During a flexible sigmoidoscopy, the patient lies on their left side with their knees drawn up towards their chest. The doctor inserts the sigmoidoscope into the rectum and slowly guides it into the colon. The camera at the end of the sigmoidoscope transmits images to a monitor, allowing the doctor to carefully examine the lining of the rectum and colon.
Related Terms
- Colonoscopy: A similar procedure that examines the entire colon, not just the lower part.
- Endoscopy: A general term for procedures that use an endoscope to examine the inside of the body.
- Biopsy: The removal of a small sample of tissue for examination under a microscope. Biopsies can be performed during a flexible sigmoidoscopy if necessary.
- Polyp: A small growth of tissue that can be found in the colon or rectum. Polyps can be removed during a flexible sigmoidoscopy if they are found.
Risks and Complications
As with any medical procedure, flexible sigmoidoscopy carries some risks, including bleeding, infection, and perforation of the colon. However, these complications are rare.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Flexible sigmoidoscopy
- Wikipedia's article - Flexible sigmoidoscopy
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