Editing Sigmoidoscopy (section)

== Rigid sigmoidoscopy ==
Rigid sigmoidoscopy may be useful in ano-rectal diseases such as bleeding per rectum or inflammatory rectal disease, particularly in the general practice and pediatrics.

For performing the examination, the patient must lie on the left side, in the so-called [[Sims' position]]. The bowels are previously emptied with a [[suppository]], and a [[digital rectal examination]] is first performed. The sigmoidoscope is lubricated and inserted with [[wikt:obturator|obturator]] in general direction of the [[navel]]. The direction is then changed and the obturator is removed so that the physician may penetrate further with direct vision. A [[bellows]] is used to insufflate air to distend the rectum. Lateral movements of the sigmoidoscope's tip negotiate the [[Houston valve]] and the [[recto-sigmoid junction]].