What is Flexible Sigmoidoscopy (FFS)?
Flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscopy (FFS) examines the lining of the rectum of the lower intestine (sigmoid colon) and identifies any abnormalities. During this procedure, a flexible fiberoptic tube (sigmoidoscope) is passed through the rectum into the lower intestine. A biopsy specimen (a tiny bit of tissue) may be taken for microscopic examination. You will not feel any sensation or discomfort when the biopsy is performed.
Preparing for the FFS
Medication will be administered intravenously before the procedure to make you sleepy and relaxed. The medication will be monitored and adjusted during the procedure if needed.
During the procedure, you will lie on your left side with your knees bent so you will be lying in a knee-chest position.
The doctor will first examine your rectum with a gloved, lubricated finger. Then he will insert the lubricated sigmoidoscope. This will give you a mild sensation of wanting to move your bowels. As the sigmoidoscope is carefully advanced through the rectum and sigmoid colon, the doctor will examine the intestinal lining for any abnormalities.
You may feel some mild cramping or gas from the residual air that is introduced during the procedure. You may also notice some mild lower abdominal pressure as the scope is advanced through the lower bowel. These sensations should be completely tolerable and not painful.
After the FFS
After the exam, you may experience some bloating and gas for a few hours. This is normal.
Before you leave, the doctor will discuss the finding with you. The discharge nurse will give you written instructions to follow when you get home. If a specimen is taken, your physician will instruct you regarding how to obtain your results.
Flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscopy (FFS) examines the lining of the rectum of the lower intestine (sigmoid colon) and identifies any abnormalities. During this procedure, a flexible fiberoptic tube (sigmoidoscope) is passed through the rectum into the lower intestine. A biopsy specimen (a tiny bit of tissue) may be taken for microscopic examination. You will not feel any sensation or discomfort when the biopsy is performed.
Preparing for the FFS
- Inform physician BEFORE the procedure of:
- Heart or lung conditions
- Any other major diseases
- If you take aspirin, NSAIDS, arthritis or blood-thinning medication, pleasenotify your physician. These medications may need to be stopped several days before the EGD.
- Clear liquid diet the day before the exam, then nothing by mouth after midnight except the laxative, if ordered.
- Please refrain from bringing valuables to the hospital.
- Take two Fleet saline enemas (in the green box) the day of the exam. You can buy these at the pharmacy without a prescription. Please follow the directions on the box accurately. If after two enemas the return is not clear, refill one of the bottles with warm water and repeat until clear. (This is very important. If the prep is not clear, your appointment may have to be rescheduled.)
- Please confirm your medications with your physician.
- Inform physician and the GI nurse to any known medication allergies.
- Be prepared to sign a consent form authorizing the doctor to perform the procedure.
- Wear comfortable, loose clothing to your appointment. Upon your arrival, you will be asked to undress from the waist down and put on a hospital gown.
- Remove eyeglasses prior to the procedure.
- Dentures may be removed prior to the procedure.
- You may prefer to remove contact lenses.
- You will not be able to drive home after the procedure, so please make transportation arrangements.
Medication will be administered intravenously before the procedure to make you sleepy and relaxed. The medication will be monitored and adjusted during the procedure if needed.
During the procedure, you will lie on your left side with your knees bent so you will be lying in a knee-chest position.
The doctor will first examine your rectum with a gloved, lubricated finger. Then he will insert the lubricated sigmoidoscope. This will give you a mild sensation of wanting to move your bowels. As the sigmoidoscope is carefully advanced through the rectum and sigmoid colon, the doctor will examine the intestinal lining for any abnormalities.
You may feel some mild cramping or gas from the residual air that is introduced during the procedure. You may also notice some mild lower abdominal pressure as the scope is advanced through the lower bowel. These sensations should be completely tolerable and not painful.
After the FFS
After the exam, you may experience some bloating and gas for a few hours. This is normal.
Before you leave, the doctor will discuss the finding with you. The discharge nurse will give you written instructions to follow when you get home. If a specimen is taken, your physician will instruct you regarding how to obtain your results.
