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 health professional see the inside the colon and record the findings.
• Most medical experts recommend colon cancer screening beginning at age 50 for people who have an average risk and earlier for those who have an increased risk for colon cancer, such as those with a family history of colon cancer. Talk with your health professional about which colon cancer screening test is best for you.
• 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?

Go to previous section	Go to top of page	Go to next section
Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS	Last Updated: May 8, 2007
Medical Review:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Jerome B. Simon, MD, FRCPC, FACP - Gastroenterology
© 1995-2008 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.