A Sigmoidoscopy inspects the descending colon, looking for causes of rectal bleeding or other symptoms you have reported to your gastroenterologist.
Like a colonoscopy, a sigmoidoscopy is a type of exam called an endoscope. A lighted, flexible instrument with a little camera on the end allows doctors to see the inside of your digestive tract. Endoscopy has become one of the best diagnostic tools available for gastrointestinal specialists. It gives doctors the advantage of being able to see inside the colon, it is completely safe and is even more accurate than an X-ray examination.
A sigmoidoscopy is a short procedure, usually not involving anesthesia, and is only mildly uncomfortable. A biopsy can be performed and polyps can be removed during the procedure with no pain to the patient.