ABSTRACT
Sigmoidoscopy is the examination of the sigmoid colon and upper rectum. This can be achieved using either rigid or flexible instruments. Proctoscopy is the examination of the rectum. The aims of proctosigmoidoscopy are to visualize any diseased area of rectum and sigmoid colon from within the bowel lumen, to obtain biopsy samples as required, and to perform the procedure with minimal discomfort and risk to the patient. The recent introduction of small diameter instruments specially designed for children has established proctosigmoidoscopy as an important diagnostic technique. Superficial mucosa lesions of the recto-sigmoid, which are not apparent with conventional contrast studies, can be inspected directly and biopsied.
