Flexible sigmoidoscopy. Illuminating the pearls for passage

As efforts to improve screening for colon cancer have increased, so has the importance of routine flexible sigmoidoscopy. However, the procedure is still underused, and about half of primary care physicians who recommend it refer their patients to other physicians. Increased use of this valuable screening tool is an important goal in primary care practice. Drs Davis and Stanfield discuss the indications, contraindications, and goals of the procedure as well as special techniques and maneuvers that ensure its safety and efficiency.