Sigmoidoscopy (Anoscopy, Proctoscopy)

Anoscopy, Flexible Sigmoidoscopy, Proctoscopy

What To Think About

• Follow-up tests, such as colonoscopy, may be needed after sigmoidoscopy. A colonoscopy may also be needed to examine the upper section of the colon if growths were seen during sigmoidoscopy. For more information, see the medical test Colonoscopy.
• In some cases, the sigmoidoscope may be attached to a video monitor and a recording device that lets your doctor see the inside the colon and record the findings.
• Experts recommend that everyone age 50 or older who has an average risk for colon cancer get a screening test to look for colon polyps. Some people should start testing sooner, such as African Americans and people with a strong family history of colon cancer. Talk to your doctor about when you should start having this screening test.
• You may not be able to have this test if you have peritonitis, diverticulitis, toxic megacolon, or if you have had recent bowel surgery.

For more information on screening tests for colon cancer, see:

Which test should I have to screen for colon cancer?

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Author:	Monica Rhodes	Last Updated: April 30, 2009
Medical Review:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Jerome B. Simon, MD, FRCPC, FACP - Gastroenterology
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