Proctoscopy
Key points
- Sigmoidoscopy is an internal examination of the distal large bowel (colon), using an instrument called a sigmoidoscope.
- The sigmoidoscope is a small camera attched to a flexible tube.
- It is inserted into the colon to examine the rectum, and the sigmoid and descending portions of the colon.
Alternative names
Sigmoidoscopy; Proctosigmoidoscopy
Definition
Sigmoidoscopy is an internal examination of the distal large bowel (colon), using an instrument called a sigmoidoscope. The sigmoidoscope is a small camera attched to a flexible tube. It is inserted into the colon to examine the rectum, and the sigmoid and descending portions of the colon.
Written and revised by
Gerald Hurowitz, M.D.
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