Rigid Sigmoidoscopy Procedures

Sigmoidoscopy is the process of examining the large intestine via a probe inserted through the colon. It is similar to a colonoscopy (which examines the entire large bowel), but this type of exam only extends to the sigmoid, which is the lowest part of the colon. In a rigid sigmoidoscopy, the probing apparatus is inflexible as its name suggests. In most examinations, the probe is inserted in the direction of the belly button. The rigid sigmoidoscopy has been replaced in most applications by the newer procedure of videocolonoscopy, or flexible sigmoidoscopy. Although no longer widely-used, it still has advantages in some applications, and is often used in general practice and pediatrics.

Anorectal Disease

• In examination and diagnosis of patients with certain anorectal disorders, such as rectal bleeding or inflammatory rectal disease, a rigid sigmoidoscopy is used more often than a flexible colonoscopy. In cases of these disorders where a videocolonoscopy was used, more serious conditions were often missed or overlooked. A rigid sigmoidoscopy provides more usable data to the examiner who in turn can diagnose a broader range of disorders.

Post-Surgical Evaluation

• Rigid sigmoidoscopy proves to be a useful procedure for evaluating a patient's recovery following colonic surgery, and it may also be used to evaluate if any bleeding or obstruction occurs. As with cancer diagnosis, rigid sigmoidoscopy provides more accurate and detailed information. This procedure is relatively safe in patients who have been screened for suitability and who have had surgery at least one week prior to the examination.

Evaluation of Patient Suitability

• An evaluation of the procedure's safety for a specific patient is important for a rigid sigmoidoscopy procedure. In 5 percent of patients who undergo rigid sigmoidoscopy, a condition called Bacteremia occurs. Patients with this condition suffer from bacteria present in the blood, which can trigger the more serious condition of Sepsis. Because of this risk, patients are evaluated for neutropenia and other immune-system disorders. In high-risk patients, antibiotic prophylaxis is used to reduce the risk.

Cancer Diagnosis

• A common cause of rectal bleeding and inflamation is cancer. The types of cancer responsible for these conditions are highly-treatable if caught early, and rigid sigmoidoscopy is typically used for this examination because it provides a more accurate measurement of a tumor's distance from the anus, which is helpful in determining the viability of surgery.