Larissa K. F. Temple, M.D., Chief of the Division of Colorectal Surgery
Jenny R. Speranza, M.D.
Christina Cellini, M.D.
Fergal J. Fleming, M.D.
Irfan Rizvi, M.D.
Office: (585) 273-2727
FAX: (585) 276-2203
Pre-Screening: (585) 242-1263
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy Prep Instructions
A flexible sigmoidoscopy is a procedure that enables your physician to look at the inner lining of your rectum and the lower part of your colon using a long, thin flexible tube with a tiny light and camera. This test may be recommended if you have abdominal pain, rectal bleeding or changes in your bowel habits. It can also be used to check for colon and rectal cancer.
In order for your sigmoidoscopy to be successful, your bowel must be cleansed. To do this, it is very important to follow these instructions. Failure to do so may lead to the cancellation of your sigmoidoscopy.
Before your procedure, a nurse will call you to review your health history and medications. If you have any additional questions, please call our office at
(585) 273-2727, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Please Note:
· The time of your procedure may change, we ask you to be as flexible as possible. Also, please notify our office as soon as possible if you are unable to keep your appointment.
· If you will be having sedation, an adult must drive you home from your sigmoidoscopy. An adult must also accompany you if you are having sedation and plan to take the bus or a cab.
· You will not be able to work or drive until the day after your procedure.
· If you have a pacemaker or pacemaker/defibrillator, please call our office at (585) 273-2727 for additional instructions.
If You Take Any of the Following Medications:
Blood thinners – Medications such as Coumadin® (Warfarin), Plavix® (Clopidogrel), Ticlid® (Ticlopidine Hydrochloride), Agrylin® (Anagrelide) and/or Aspirin must be stopped five (5) days prior to your sigmoidoscopy. Please call our office to discuss holding these medications.
Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS) – Please do not take any NSAIDS such as Ibuprofen, Motrin, Aspirin and/or Ketorolac for five (5) days before your procedure.
Please Purchase the Following:
· One fleet enema (saline laxative), found over the counter at any pharmacy.
Preparing for Your Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
Please remember that you must follow the prep instructions exactly as they are written to allow your doctor to perform your sigmoidoscopy properly. Again, failure to follow the instructions may lead to cancellation of your procedure.
· You will need to take a fleet enema (saline laxative) one to two hours before you are scheduled to arrive for your procedure.
· We will also do an enema upon your arrival for your appointment.
· If you are unable to do the enema at home, please notify our nursing staff.
For Sedation Patients Only:
You will be notified ahead of time if you are scheduled to have sedation.
You may have a light meal six hours prior to your sigmoidoscopy. You may also have the following clear liquids up until two hours before your procedure:
· Apple juice
· Black coffee with sugar (no cream)
· Ginger ale
· Water
Important Things to Know Following Your Procedure:
A flexible sigmoidoscopy is generally a safe procedure; however, there is a small chance of developing complications that may not be identified for up to one week or more after your procedure.
You will be provided with detailed discharge instructions, but please notify your doctor if you develop a fever, have severe abdominal pain or experience any unusual symptoms following your sigmoidoscopy.
A copy of your sigmoidoscopy report will be sent to your primary care or referring physician.
Other Helpful Information:
· Prior to your procedure, please remove and leave all jewelry at home. Also leave all valuables at home.
· Please bring your photo ID and insurance card with you.
· Plan on being at the Surgery Center for at least three hours.
· We strongly encourage the adult who will be your ride home to remain onsite for the length of your procedure.
· Please do not plan on traveling for at least 48 hours following your procedure.
Again, please feel free to contact our office at (585) 273-2727 with any questions – we’re always here to help!
Location for Your Procedure: