Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is the inspection of the lower part of the large intestine (colon) using a lighted viewing scope (sigmoidoscope). A health professional can also remove small growths and collect tissue samples (biopsy) through a sigmoidoscope.
Sigmoidoscopy is most commonly used to screen for colon cancer. About half of all colon tumors and polyps can be found using sigmoidoscopy.
Sigmoidoscopy is done in a hospital or health professional's office that has the necessary equipment. Preparation for the test includes emptying the bowels ahead of time using a laxative or enema.
| Author | Jeannette Curtis |
| Author | Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Last Updated | May 25, 2007 |
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
Last Updated:
May 25, 2007
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