About Rigid Sigmoidoscopy
Key Highlights
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Provides direct visualization of the rectum and sigmoid colon for accurate diagnosis.Typically requires minimal bowel preparation compared to a full colonoscopy.Procedure is relatively quick, often taking 5 to 15 minutes.Can be performed without sedation in an outpatient setting.Allows for immediate biopsy or removal of small polyps during the exam.Useful for monitoring known conditions like ulcerative proctitis.liLower cost alternative to colonoscopy for focused lower GI issues./li/ul
Who is this surgery for?
- Evaluation of rectal bleeding or blood in the stool.
- Investigation of unexplained chronic diarrhea or constipation.
- Assessment of abdominal pain or discomfort localized to the lower left side.
- Screening for colorectal cancer or polyps in patients with specific risk factors.
- Diagnosis and monitoring of inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative proctitis.
- Follow-up examination after prior polyp removal or cancer treatment in the lower colon.
- Evaluation of an abnormal finding on a digital rectal exam or imaging study.
How to prepare
- One or two enemas are typically administered 1-2 hours before the procedure to clear the lower bowel.
- You may be asked to follow a clear liquid diet for 12-24 hours prior.
- Inform your doctor about all medications, especially blood thinners like warfarin or clopidogrel.
- You will usually be asked to empty your bladder right before the exam.
- No general anesthesia is required; the procedure is often done without sedation.
Risks & possible complications
- Minor rectal bleeding, especially if a biopsy is taken.
- Discomfort, cramping, or a feeling of fullness during the procedure.
- Very rare risk of perforation (a tear) in the bowel wall.
- Risk of infection is extremely low.
- Vasovagal reaction (lightheadedness or fainting) during or after the procedure.
Recovery & hospital stay
- You can usually resume normal activities and diet immediately after the procedure.
- You may experience mild gas or bloating, which should pass quickly.
- A small amount of spotting or blood-tinged mucus is normal if a biopsy was taken.
- Contact your doctor if you experience severe abdominal pain, fever, chills, or heavy rectal bleeding.
- Your gastroenterologist will discuss the findings and any necessary follow-up steps.
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Typical hospital stay: 0 days (outpatient procedure)
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Expected recovery time: 0-1 days
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering rigid sigmoidoscopy in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Popular choices for rigid sigmoidoscopy in India include Kamineni Hospital, Tadigadapa, SIMS Hospital Vadapalani, KMC Hospital Mangalore, Manipal Hospital Baner, Manipal Hospital Dwarka, known for experienced specialists and advanced surgical infrastructure.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform rigid sigmoidoscopy. MediFyr helps you compare gastroenterologists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for rigid sigmoidoscopy compare across other countries where we have data.
Top hospitals for Rigid Sigmoidoscopy in India
These partner hospitals in India have dedicated gastroenterology teams and experience managing patients undergoing rigid sigmoidoscopy.
Priya Williams, a 42-year-old high school...
Priya Williams, a 42-year-old high school biology teacher and mother of two, had been experiencing intermittent rectal bleeding and persistent abdominal discomfort for three months. Her family history includes a grandmother who had colon cancer, which heightened her anxiety. After a digital rectal exam revealed no hemorrhoids, her primary care physician referred her to a gastroenterologist. The doctor recommended a rigid sigmoidoscopy to visualize the lower colon and rule out inflammatory bowel disease or polyps. During the procedure, Priya felt significant pressure and cramping but managed with deep breathing; the doctor found and removed a small, benign polyp. Recovery involved mild cramping and spotting for a day, with clear follow-up instructions. Emotionally, Priya was terrified of cancer but felt immense relief and empowerment after receiving benign results, vowing to prioritize her health screenings.
Gastroenterologists for Rigid Sigmoidoscopy
Explore experienced gastroenterologists who regularly perform rigid sigmoidoscopy and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 25 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai
- 34 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai
- 20 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 39 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 16 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneshwar
- 11 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneshwar
- 11 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Kamineni Hospital LB Nagar, Hyderabad
- 8 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Kamineni Hospital LB Nagar, Hyderabad
- 14 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Gurgaon, Gurgaon
- 18 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
- 49 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 35 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
- 32 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
- 30 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Metro Hospital, Sector 11, Noida
- 30 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Metro Hospital, Sector 11, Noida
- 21 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
- 21 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 15 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 10 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Metro Hospital, Sector 11, Noida
- 9 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai