Sigmoidoscopy
During a
sigmoidoscopy for colorectal screening, the doctor checks inside the rectum and lower (sigmoid)
colon with a lighted tube called a sigmoidoscope. If polyps are found, the doctor removes them. The procedure to remove polyps is called a polypectomy.
Colonoscopy
During a
colonoscopy, the doctor examines inside the rectum and entire colon using a long, lighted tube called a colonoscope. The doctor removes any polyps that may be found.
Barium Enema
In a test referred to as a
barium enema, the patient is given an enema that contains a barium solution, and air is pumped into the rectum. A series of x-rays are then taken. The barium and air outline the colon and rectum on the x-rays. Polyps may show up on the x-ray.
Colorectal Cancer Screening and Intervals
- People in their 50s and older should be screened
- People who are at higher-than-average risk of colorectal cancer should talk with their doctor about whether to have screening tests before age 50, what tests to have, the benefits and risks of each test, and how often to schedule appointments.
Several scientific organizations recommend regular screening test intervals as follows:
- Fecal occult blood test every year
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years
- Double-contrast barium enema every 5 years
- Colonoscopy every 10 years.
A Summary of Colorectal Cancer Screening
Colorectal cancer screening is an important part of any person's healthcare. Starting at the age of 50 people should begin getting screened for colorectal cancer. For those with risk factors for colorectal cancer, screening should begin even earlier. No matter how old you are, you should ask for medical advice about when to begin having colorectal cancer screening and how often to be screened -- especially if you have risk factors for the disease.
For more specifics on colon or rectal cancer, visit the following sections of the eMedTV library:
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