SIGMOIDOSCOPY

The preparation for this procedure is similar to that of a colonoscopy. The descending portion of the colon and rectum must be completely empty. Your doctor will provide specific instructions to accomplish this, but you will likely be informed to drink only clear liquids for 12 to 24 hours beforehand. A liquid diet means fat-free bouillon or broth, gelatin, strained fruit juice, water, plain coffee, plain tea or diet soda. The night before you may also be given an enema, which is a liquid solution that washes out your intestines.

Flexible sigmoidoscopy takes 10 to 20 minutes. During the procedure, you might feel pressure and slight cramping in your lower abdomen. However, you will feel better afterward when the air generated during the sigmoidoscopy leaves your colon.

You should be able to resume normal activities and diet as soon as the exam is completed.

Please note that for the most comprehensive diagnostic testing, a colonoscopy views the descending colon - as well as the additional two-thirds of the large intestine that makes up the entire colon.