Admin_NHT Staff asked 6 years ago The last third of your descending colon is called the sigmoid colon and is connected to the anus via the rectum. Although a colonoscopy investigates the entire colon, a sigmoidoscopy is localised only to the sigmoid colon. This test is done to determine the presence of any ulcers, abnormal cells, polyps, or cancer in the sigmoid colon. Before the procedure, you will be given a couple of enemas to completely empty your intestines and you will be asked to follow a diet of only clear liquids for about 3 days before your test. Liquids with red or purple dyes should be avoided as they resemble blood in the colon.
During the procedure, you will be asked to wear a hospital gown and will have to lie on your left side. The doctor will the insert the scope inside your body through the anus to get the required imaging and he may also cut a piece of tissue as biopsy to test for cancer if required. The entire procedure takes about 20-30 minutes and it is recommended to bring someone along to drive you home. If only imaging was done, the doctor may give you the results immediately, but for cases involving biopsies the results may take 2-3 days.