Ambulatory surgery
Straightforward
What is it?
Rectoscopy is an endoscopic endoscopic exploration technique, by means of which the interior wall of the rectum can be observed in order to detect the existence of polyps, tumors and other pathologies typical of rectal examination.
How is a flexible sigmoidoscopy performed?
Inspection of the sigmoid colon
During flexible sigmoidoscopy, patients lie on their left side on an examination table.
The doctor inserts a long, flexible, lighted tube called a sigmoidoscope, or endoscope, into the anus and slowly guides it through the rectum and into the sigmoid colon.
The endoscope inflates the colon with air to give the doctor a better view.
A small camera attached to the scope sends video images from inside the colon to a computer screen, allowing the doctor to carefully examine the tissues that line the sigmoid colon and rectum.
The physician may ask the patient to move periodically so that the scope can be adjusted for better visualization.
Once the scope reaches the transverse colon, it is slowly withdrawn into the scope while once again the lining of the colon is carefully examined.
What is it done for?
Rectoscopy allows the diagnosis of different diseases that affect the rectum, such as the presence of polyps, a malignant tumor or the existence of internal hemorrhoids.
This test is usually indicated in the presence of specific symptoms such as abdominal pain of which its origin or rectal bleeding has not been identified.
Recovery
Flexible sigmoidoscopy usually takes about 20 minutes. Cramping and bloating may occur during the first hour after the procedure. Bleeding or puncture of the large intestine are possible but rare complications. Instructions at discharge from the hospital should be carefully reviewed and followed.
Together with the Family ... Always!
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