Related Experiment Videos
Rigid rectosigmoidoscopy: still a well-tolerated diagnostic tool.
Takeshi Takahashi1, Xeily Zarate, Liliana Velasco
1Service of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico. takahashit@infosel.net.mx
Summary
Rigid rectosigmoidoscopy causes symptoms like pain and discomfort in many patients, but it is generally well-tolerated and remains a cost-effective diagnostic tool.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Medical Devices
- Diagnostic Procedures
Background:
- Rigid rectosigmoidoscopy, though often replaced by flexible alternatives, is a cost-effective and accessible diagnostic tool.
- This study aimed to identify and quantify patient symptoms during rigid rectosigmoidoscopy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the types of symptoms experienced by patients undergoing rigid rectosigmoidoscopy.
- To quantify the magnitude of these symptoms using a visual analogue scale.
Main Methods:
- Prospective evaluation of 134 patients undergoing diagnostic rigid rectosigmoidoscopy.
- Patient complaints were recorded and their severity measured using a visual analogue scale.
Main Results:
- 60% of patients reported symptoms, primarily pain (33%) and discomfort from preparation (13%).
- Symptoms were generally of low magnitude, with median visual analogue scale scores below 3.3.
- Higher pain and discomfort were associated with female gender, left lateral decubitus position, and full-length examination.
Conclusions:
- Rigid rectosigmoidoscopy elicits symptoms in a majority of patients.
- Despite symptoms, the procedure is typically well-tolerated due to low pain and discomfort levels.
- The study reaffirms rigid rectosigmoidoscopy's value as a cost-effective diagnostic option.