Doctor
Rigid proctosigmoidoscopy is a medical procedure using a device called a sigmoidoscope, which can see inside the sigmoid colon and rectum in order to screen for colorectal cancer or other disorders of the bowels.
The Sigmoid Colon
The final one-third of the colon is the sigmoid colon, or the descending colon. Below the sigmoid colon is the rectum, which connects the colon to the anus.
The Sigmoidoscope
A sigmoidoscope is a long, lighted tube containing a small camera that projects an image to a computer or television screen while a doctor moves the tube through the rectum and colon. It is about the thickness of a finger and is either rigid or flexible.
Sigmoidoscopy Versus Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy shows the entire colon, including the upper two-thirds of the organ, the portions known as the ascending and transverse colons. A sigmoidoscope, whether rigid or flexible, is only long enough to show the sigmoid colon. A colonoscope is a similar but longer instrument.
Who Gets a Sigmoidoscopy?
Sigmoidoscopy is used both as a preventative diagnostic test and also on patients who are experiencing symptoms that are suspected of being caused by cancer or other digestive disorders.
The Difference Between Rigid and Flexible Sigmoidoscopies
The main difference between rigid and flexible sigmoidoscopies is the type of scope. One is flexible while the rigid one is stiff. Flexible sigmoidoscopies are the preferred procedure and the most commonly used.
Tags: sigmoid colon, rigid flexible, cancer other, colon rectum, sigmoid colon rectum
