You will not need anesthesia. During the procedure, the patient lies on his or her side while a thin flexible instrument, called a sigmoidscope is inserted into their rectum. The instrument is passed through the rectum and into the colon. On the tip of the sigmoidscope is a small video chip that transmits pictures to a TV screen. You and your physician can view these images as the scope explores.
Most people have no trouble during the procedure, but cramping and mild discomfort can happen.
For this procedure your bowel must be empty. Your doctor will talk with you about ways to clear your bowel. These include limiting the food you eat, taking laxatives and using an enema. The enema will help empty the contents from your bowel. It is preferable to have someone drive you home, in case you are having cramping or discomfort following the procedure.