Flexible sigmoidoscopy

This test is shorter than a colonoscopy and only examines the final part of the colon (rectum and sigmoid).

• Enemas: Generally, taking oral laxatives or following the strict multi-day diet is not required. You will need to administer 2 cleansing enemas rectally (such as Casen) at home, 1 to 3 hours before leaving for the medical center.
• Fasting and Companion/Driver: If the test will be performed under sedation (check with the center), it will require a strict fast (no solids or liquids) for 8 hours beforehand, and you must be accompanied, and come without nail polish (a pulse oximeter will be placed on your finger). If done without sedation, fasting for about 4 hours is usually sufficient.
• Medication (Anticoagulants/Antiplatelets): If you take anticoagulants (such as acenocoumarol/sintrom, warfarin, rivaroxaban, apixaban, dabigatran, heparin, etc.) or antiplatelets (such as aspirin, clopidogrel, ticagrelor, prasugrel, etc.), they usually require suspension before the test (except for ASA 100 mg, which is usually maintained). However, it is ESSENTIAL that you follow the exact instructions given by your doctor. Review the consultation report in which the test was requested to confirm the specific guidelines for your case.