Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Information for Patients - UHSM

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Introduction Your doctor has decided that you need this test to examine the lining of your bowel. This test is called a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy. This booklet has been prepared to help you understand this test. Please read it carefully. It includes answers to frequently asked questions. If there is anything that you do not understand or you have any other questions, please ask. There is a telephone number provided on the back of this booklet. What is a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy? A Flexible Sigmoidoscopy is a test performed to look at the lining of the lower end of the colon (large bowel). The bowel is a large tube with bends in it. A flexible tube, about as thick as your finger, will be passed into your back passage to look at the lining of your bowel. Some air will be put into your bowel during the examination, to make it easier to see the lining. Biopsies (samples) may be taken from your bowel lining during your test to help the doctor gain more information about any abnormality seen. The biopsy is not painful but will help the doctor plan the best treatment for you. Polyps (small growths that can develop on the lining of your bowel) can be removed and haemorrhoids (piles) can be treated at the same time. . 2
Does my bowel need to be empty? - Yes You will be given an enema on arrival to the unit. This is important as the lower end of your bowel needs to be empty so that we can get a clear view of the lining of your bowel. The Enema When you are given the enema a small tube will be passed up into your back passage and some liquid will be squeezed into your bowel. You will be asked to try and hold on to this liquid for a little while and then you will be able to empty your bowel. How long will I be in hospital? Your length of stay on the unit will usually be between 2 and 4 hours, so it would be advisable to put aside a whole morning or afternoon. We will do our best to make you as comfortable as possible What are the risks of Flexible Sigmoidoscopy? Flexible Sigmoidoscopy is a safe procedure, but there is a small risk of approximately 1 in a 1,000 of perforating the bowel during the test. If this happens it is sometimes necessary for you to have an operation to repair it. Bleeding can occur in approximately 1 in a 1,000 of patients. Bleeding can occur if polyps (small growths that can develop on the lining of your bowel) or haemorrhoids (piles) have been treated. Bleeding is usually minimal but sometimes it can be more serious and would require you to stay in hospital overnight for observation. The doctor or nurse will discuss these risks and/or alternatives with you when you arrive at the unit. What do I need to do to prepare for the test? Food and Drink • You can eat and drink as normal before your test unless otherwise indicated. Tablets and medicines • Stop taking iron tablets 7 days before your test. • If you are taking warfarin/sinthrome, please contact the staff on the unit 5 days before your appointment day for advice. • If you are taking aspirin and /or clopidogrel, please contact the staff on the unit 7 to 10 days before your appointment day for advice. • Any other medications you will be able to take as normal. • The telephone number for advice is 0161 291 4892 3
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Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Information for Patients - UHSM

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