Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

A flexible sigmoidoscopy is an examination of the lower 1/4 to 1/3 of the colon lining using a flexible , lighted instrument called a sigmoidoscope. No sedative is given. This test is recommended every five years beginning at age 50 for people at average risk for colon cancer. A barium enema study is usually used to look at the remaining 2/3s of the colon.

When will I need to start the preparation?
The preparation starts at noon the day before your procedure. Drink clear liquids only after noon.

Do I need to take a laxative the night before?
At 7 p.m. the evening before the exam, please take one 10 ounce bottle of magnesium citrate. Follow this with at least three 8 ounce glasses of water. Then nothing to drink after midnight. You can drink clear liquids until midnight. Occasionally the doctor will prescribe the colonoscopy preparation called Go-Lytely.

What will I need to do in the morning?
On the morning of the procedure you will need to administer a Fleets enema per rectum, wait 30 minutes and repeat with a second Fleets enema. Start the fleets enemas at least 2 hours before you need to leave for your appointment. Please note that if you used the Go-Lytely prep, an enema will not be needed in the morning.