About Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
Key Highlights
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Minimally invasive procedure with a thin, flexible scope.Primarily examines the rectum and sigmoid colon (lower third of the large intestine).Often requires no sedation or only light sedation, allowing for a quicker recovery.Less extensive bowel preparation is needed compared to a full colonoscopy.Effective for screening, diagnosing causes of rectal bleeding, and detecting polyps.Typically an outpatient procedure with no hospital stay required./ul
Who is this surgery for?
- Unexplained rectal bleeding or blood in the stool.
- Persistent changes in bowel habits, such as chronic diarrhea or constipation.
- Abdominal pain or cramping localized to the lower left side.
- Screening for colorectal cancer or polyps in individuals at average risk (often starting at age 45-50).
- Investigation of abnormal findings from other tests, like a positive fecal occult blood test (FOBT).
- Monitoring known conditions like ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease affecting the lower colon.
- Evaluation of suspected diverticular disease.
How to prepare
- Bowel cleansing is required, typically involving one or more enemas a few hours before the procedure to clear the lower colon.
- You may be asked to follow a clear liquid diet (broth, gelatin, clear juices) for 24 hours beforehand.
- Inform your doctor about all medications, especially blood thinners (e.g., aspirin, warfarin), which may need to be temporarily adjusted.
- Discuss any allergies, especially to medications or latex.
- Arrange for transportation home if sedation is planned, though it is often not required.
Risks & possible complications
- Minor bleeding from the site of a biopsy or polyp removal.
- Perforation (a tear in the colon wall) is a rare but serious complication.
- Abdominal discomfort, cramping, or bloating during or after the procedure.
- Reaction to sedation, if used (e.g., breathing difficulties, low blood pressure).
- Infection is very uncommon.
- Incomplete examination due to inadequate bowel preparation or anatomical issues.
Recovery & hospital stay
- You can usually resume normal activities and diet immediately after the procedure.
- If sedation was used, you will be monitored until the effects wear off and must not drive for the rest of the day.
- You may experience mild gas, bloating, or cramping, which should resolve quickly.
- A small amount of blood in the first bowel movement can be normal, especially after a biopsy.
- Contact your doctor immediately if you experience severe abdominal pain, fever, chills, or heavy rectal bleeding.
- Your gastroenterologist will discuss preliminary findings after the procedure, with biopsy results typically available in a few days.
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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 flexible sigmoidoscopy in Turkey, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Top-rated hospitals in Turkey with gastroenterology departments and experienced surgeons are ideal for this procedure. Use MediFyr to compare facilities, reviews, and doctor profiles before you decide.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform flexible 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 flexible sigmoidoscopy compare across other countries where we have data.
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Gastroenterologists for Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
Explore experienced gastroenterologists who regularly perform flexible sigmoidoscopy and provide pre- and post-operative care in Turkey.
- 10 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Liv Hospital Ankara
- 10 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Liv Hospital Ankara
- 10 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Liv Hospital Ankara
- 10 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Liv Hospital Ankara
- 10 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Liv Hospital Ankara
- 10 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Liv Hospital Ankara
- 10 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Liv Hospital Ankara
- 10 Years Experience
- Gastroenterologist
Liv Hospital Ankara