Sigmoidoscopy
The sigmoid is the last length of colon along the tract, and is named after the ‘S’-shaped curve it forms. A sigmoidoscopy is like a less extensive colonoscopy where the doctor uses a fiber-optic camera to look inside you from the bottom end and see what’s happening.
I’ve never had this procedure performed on me, but I’m told it is fairly uncomfortable because they don’t put you under before you have it done. Air is inserted to inflate the colon and you’re told to lie in a somewhat compromising and awkward position, then the camera is inserted. Not a fun procedure, but it’s at least better than prepping for a colonoscopy.
Comments
Comment from crohner
Time: October 16, 2009, 3:08 pm
Yeah, I’ve heard this is a less than pleasant procedure. Apart from the prep, personally I’d rather be put completely under for a colonoscopy than have to be awake to endure such a humiliating situation. Whatever helps the doctors get a better idea of what’s going on inside you, I guess…
Comment from Andrew
Time: September 1, 2009, 12:00 am
i had a sigmoidoscopy done last week… it is disgusting
they give you an enema the night before (gross) and then again in the morning…
they took me down to the surgery and had everyone sticking fingers inside me. then they hooked me up to a gas tank and then i came around bout half hour later… its not like they put you to sleep. its more like your awake but dont remember anything about it