Signs of Precancerous Colon Conditions
Adenomatous polyps are a precancerous condition. They are not cancerous by themselves and are often largely harmless. Their presence, however, indicates abnormal changes to colon
Sigmoidoscopy: An Important Tool in Colon Cancer Detection
A sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic test to examine the inside of the colon. Performed similarly to a colonoscopy, this test is key to early colon cancer detection. By identifying cancer before it shows symptoms, sigmoidoscopy gives patients the best chance at a successful treatment.
When sigmoidoscopies find colon cancer, patients can find high-quality care close to their homes. Regional Cancer Care Associates (RCCA) is a group of more than 100 medical oncologists and hematologists who treat patients who have solid tumors, blood-based cancers and benign blood disorders at more than 20 locations throughout New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and the Washington, DC area. RCCA emphasizes cancer education and cutting-edge treatments such as targeted therapies.
What Is a Sigmoidoscopy?
A sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic test used to examine the sigmoid colon, or the lowest section of the colon. The test involves inserting a sigmoidoscope, or a specialized camera, into the rectum to check the colon’s inner lining. The sigmoidoscope may also be used to remove polyps or a tissue sample for biopsy. Sigmoidoscopies are performed like colonoscopies. Because the test is less extensive, however, it requires less preparation and allows for easier recovery.
Who Should Have a Sigmoidoscopy?
Getting a sigmoidoscopy does not always mean that a person has cancer. The test may be requested for a wide variety of reasons, including:
Routine Screening
Most sigmoidoscopies are done for colon cancer screening. Colon cancer does not usually cause symptoms right away. Regular screening tests are a way to check for abnormalities before symptoms develop. If a routine sigmoidoscopy finds signs of cancer, then patients can begin treatment earlier for a better chance of eliminating the disease.
People can usually choose which type of screening test they receive. If opting for sigmoidoscopy, the American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends screening every three to five years after the age of 45. Individuals at high risk of colon cancer may begin screening earlier. Colon cancer risk factors include:
- Being African American
- Being overweight or obese
- Eating a diet with lots of red or processed meats and little fiber
- Drinking large amounts of alcoholic beverages
- Having a family history of colon cancer
- Having a personal history of polyps or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Having Lynch syndrome
There are no standardized screening recommendations for high-risk individuals. These people should speak with their care team about what screening schedule is best for them.
Symptom Diagnosis
If someone is experiencing symptoms of bowel disease, they may receive a sigmoidoscopy to identify the cause. The following signs and symptoms are associated with colon cancer:
- Constipation or diarrhea that lasts longer than four weeks
- Discolored stool or blood traces in stool
- Persistent feelings of fullness or needing to use the restroom
- Frequent abdominal discomfort, including gas, cramps, pain, and bloating
- Unexplained weight loss, especially with no activity or dietary changes
- Chronic fatigue or tiredness
- Unexplained iron deficiency
It is important to note that the great majority of women and men who experience one or more of the symptoms listed above will not have colon cancer. Nonetheless, it is important to consult a physician about these symptoms, particularly if they are pronounced, arose suddenly, or have persisted for an extended period.
While a sigmoidoscopy can be used to check for cancer, it may also be used for other conditions. The above symptoms are sometimes caused by IBD, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or other benign conditions. The sigmoidoscopy helps doctors arrive at a conclusive diagnosis.
Polyp Removal and Biopsy
Finally, sigmoidoscopies may be requested to investigate and remove suspicious tissue that was found using medical imaging. This can include precancerous polyps, which are abnormal masses that form in the colon and have a high chance of becoming cancerous. This can also include tumors or other suspicious areas in the lower colon.
After a polyp or suspicious tissue is removed, it may be sent to a medical laboratory for biopsy. The sample will be examined under a microscope to check for cancer cells. If cancer is found, then the patient and their oncologist can begin discussing their options for treatment.
Preparing for a Sigmoidoscopy
Before a sigmoidoscopy, patients must perform a bowel cleanse. This starts by avoiding dairy products and fiber-rich foods for several days before the procedure. On the day before the procedure, patients must follow a clear-liquid diet. A clear-liquid diet involves consuming only liquid foods that do not contain pulp, cream, or solids. Acceptable options include:
- Water
- Fat-free broth or bouillon
- Gelatin
- Sports drinks
- Plain coffee or tea
- Pulp-free fruit juice, such as apple or white grape juice
An enema, a strong laxative, or both may also be provided. Patients should stay near a bathroom, as the diet and laxatives will cause frequent diarrhea. They should also inform their physician if side effects may keep them from finishing the cleanse.
What to Expect on Testing Day
On testing day, the patient will be given a hospital gown to wear. They may be asked to lie on their side on an operating table, or they may kneel on the table. Anesthesia is not usually necessary, though sedation may be provided if needed. The procedure follows these steps:
- The endoscopist inserts a gloved finger into the rectum to search for blockages.
- The endoscopist inserts the sigmoidoscope into the anus. The sigmoidoscope is a flexible tube equipped with a light, a specialized camera, and a cutting tool.
- The sigmoidoscope blows carbon dioxide into the colon, expanding it so that the entire colon lining can be seen clearly.
- The endoscopist uses the sigmoidoscope to examine the rectum and the lower portion of the large intestine for inflammation, polyps, or suspicious tissue.
- If any polyps or suspicious tissue masses are found, the endoscopist removes them.
The procedure takes 30 minutes to one hour to complete. Afterward, the individual is free to go home the same day.
After the Sigmoidoscopy
Gas, bloating, and cramping are common side effects of a sigmoidoscopy. This is caused by the gas used to inflate the colon and should pass within a day. Otherwise, there are typically no side effects from a sigmoidoscopy. People can resume everyday activities and go back to a normal diet.
Sigmoidoscopy results may take up to a week to process. Once results are available, the individual’s physician will be in touch for discussion. A follow-up appointment may be scheduled if testing found anything suspicious. If results are negative, however, the person does not need to worry about further testing until their next routine screening.
Find Expert Colon Cancer Care Near You in NJ, CT, MA, and the Washington, D.C., Area
If a sigmoidoscopy finds cancer, the next step is to pursue treatment. Regional Cancer Care Associates educates patients to help them avoid life-threatening cancer. RCCA specialists provide care to more than 30,000 new patients and 265,000 established patients each year. RCCA physicians offer patients innovative therapies, including immunotherapies and targeted therapy, cutting-edge diagnostics as well as access to approximately 300 clinical trials in community-based centers close to home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sigmoidoscopy
What is a sigmoidoscopy procedure?
A sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic test that uses a specialized camera, called a sigmoidoscope, to examine the inside of the lower colon.
Why is a sigmoidoscopy done?
A sigmoidoscopy is used to diagnose bowel issues such as rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, and chronic diarrhea, and to screen for colon cancer or polyps.
How is a sigmoidoscopy different from a colonoscopy?
A sigmoidoscopy only examines the lower third of the colon, while a colonoscopy examines the entire colon.
How often should I receive a screening sigmoidoscopy?
Individuals over the age of 45 who are at average risk of colon cancer should receive a sigmoidoscopy every three to five years. Someone who is at above-average risk and those who have had abnormal test results may need to screen more often.
What are the symptoms of colon cancer?
Colon cancer does not usually cause symptoms at the start. When symptoms develop, they include:
- Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea
- Blood in stool
- Frequently needing to use the apartment
- Abdominal discomfort, such as gas, bloating, or cramping
- Unexplained weight loss
- Chronic fatigue
The great majority of women and men who experience one or more of the symptoms listed above will not have colon cancer. Nonetheless, it is important to consult a physician about these symptoms.
Receive the Highest Standard of Care
From the moment you have you first appointment at one of RCCA’s 25+ locations, you’ll experience quality care that only our highly trained oncologists can provide. We’ll take the time to help you understand your diagnosis and your options, so you and your doctor can devise the best treatment plan for your unique situation. You’ll also have access to clinical trials, putting you at the forefront of innovations in the field of colon cancer care.
To learn more about colon cancer treatment at RCCA or to schedule an appointment, reach out to us at 844-346-7222.
Physicians SPECIALIZED IN COLON CANCER
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