Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

Board Certified Gastroenterologist in El Paso

At GastroCare of El Paso, we use flexible sigmoidoscopy to visually examine the lower part of the colon (known as the sigmoid colon) and inside the rectum. This procedure is completed by our highly trained and board certified El Paso gastroenterologist using a thin, long, flexible tube to insert into the rectum. This tube is connected to a video screen, allowing the doctor to check for abnormalities, take pictures or tissue samples.

The flexible sigmoidoscopy procedure is performed to help diagnose the cause of symptoms such as:

• Diarrhea: For patients who experience persistent and chronic diarrhea, this procedure may be used to determine the specific cause of the problem.
• Pain: Fissures and hemorrhoids can cause chronic pain in the rectum or around the anus area. This procedure can be used to provide an accurate diagnosis.
• Rectal bleeding: Rectal bleeding is a serious problem that may point to an underlying health issue. We can help identify and remove problems before they develop further.
• Screen for cancer: If a barium enema X-Ray has been performed and shown abnormalities, this procedure may be used to confirm or diagnose the need for cancer treatment.

Monitoring & Preventing Disease

There are many different digestive conditions that can lead to cancer or disease if they are not diagnosed and treated early on, such as diverticulitis, colon cancer, and colitis. With the help of a flexible sigmoidoscopy, we can monitor and diagnose these conditions early on and assess if treatment is necessary. This procedure can also be used to detect polyps and tumors at an early stage, even before symptoms are present. Having these routine tests performed can offer you peace of mind.

Call our El Paso gastroenterology office today at (915) 702-0165.