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 Medanta The Medicity, Kamineni Hospital, Tadigadapa, Gem Hospital Perungudi, SIMS Hospital Vadapalani, KMC Hospital Mangalore, 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.
I'd been to three other doctors...
I'd been to three other doctors for this nagging pain and fatigue. Everyone said it was stress. Dr. Latha at MGM was the first one who actually sat and listened, really listened, to everything I was saying. She ordered a specific test the others hadn't, and it turned out to be something quite rare. She explained it all to me in plain Tamil, drew diagrams on a notepad. I was scared, but she laid out a clear plan. It's been a long road, but I finally feel like we're getting somewhere.
Gastroenterologists for Rigid Sigmoidoscopy
Explore experienced gastroenterologists who regularly perform rigid sigmoidoscopy and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 31 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Dwarka
- 20 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospitals Broadway
- 21 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Doddaballapur
- 12 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Mukundapur
- 15 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Jaipur
- 13 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospitals Broadway
- 12 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital Kanakapura Road
- 41 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospitals Broadway
- 24 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Manipal Hospital EM Bypass