Flexible Sigmoidoscopy in Baton Rouge, LA

You'll be asked to arrive for your flexible sigmoidoscopy 1 – 1.5 hours early. This will ensure you have time to complete all forms and get ready for the exam. You will be asked to put on a hospital gown. In most cases, no IV will be started since, in general, sedation is not administered with this exam. You might be connected to technology that will permit your provider and our staff to monitor your oxygen levels, heart rate, electrocardiogram, pulse, breathing, and blood pressure during and after the exam.

Once in the exam room, you'll be directed to lie down on your left on the stretcher. Your gastroenterologist will perform an exam of your rectum. The sigmoidoscope will then be gently inserted just inside the rectum. The scope will be slowly advanced through the sigmoid colon. A tiny amount of air is injected through the tube into the colon to assist in your provider visualization. Any fluid remaining in the colon post-preparation can be rinsed and suctioned out through the scope. Depending on the findings of the test, a number of things can be done during the procedure, including biopsies, removal of polyps, and control of bleeding. At the conclusion of the procedure, as much of the air and remaining fluid as possible is removed from the colon through the scope. Depending on the findings, the exam usually takes 5 – 15 minutes.

Since anesthesia is not usually necessary, once the procedure is finished, you can change back into your clothes and be discharged. Assuming sedation is not utilized, you'll be permitted to perform your normal activities as well as drive. The majority of individuals are able to eat and drink regularly after their release; however, specific guidelines related to activity, eating, and medications will be provided before discharge. After the exam, we will review the findings of the exam with you. You will also be sent home with a written report. We will let you know of any biopsy results within one week.

By and large, sigmoidoscopy is a very safe test. In all, complications are seen in fewer than 1% of patients. Most complications are not serious; however, if a complication occurs, it may result in hospitalization and surgery. Ahead of the procedure, a consent form will be reviewed with you. Should any concerns or questions arise, these may be discussed with your provider before the beginning of the procedure.

Bleeding may happen with biopsies and the removal of polyps. Again, a concerning amount of bleeding, which could necessitate a blood transfusion or hospitalization, is very unusual. However, bleeding can occur during the procedure or up to two weeks after the exam if a polyp is extracted.

Perforation or puncture of the colon may take place. This can be noticed during the procedure, or it may not be obvious until later in the day. In the majority of cases, a perforation will require hospitalization and surgery. This is an unusual complication, even when polyps are removed. It is of the utmost importance that you consult with the specialist's office immediately if symptoms become present after the exam, such as growing abdominal pain, bleeding, or fever.

Just like any other exam, a sigmoidoscopy is not always without error. There exists a small, acknowledged chance that tissue abnormalities, including but not limited to polyps and cancers, can be missed during the exam. It is vital to remain vigilant and to maintain check-ups with your Baton Rouge, LA gastroenterologist as directed and make them aware of any new or ongoing symptoms. Please consult with your Gastroenterology Associates provider if you have any concerns or questions.