Sigmoidoscopy in general practice

The author performed 961 consecutive rigid sigmoidoscopic examinations in his private practice from 1977 to 1986. All procedures were evaluated according to indication (541 routine "case finding" vs. 420 diagnostic examinations), risk status for colorectal cancer, presence of occult blood, relation to other modes of polyp detection (barium enema or colonoscopy), and pathology. During the 541 routine examinations, 70 (12.9%) procedures revealed 89 polypoid lesions. About half of these lesions were neoplastic, and the remainder were hyperplastic. Two carcinomas in situ were discovered during routine examination. During the 420 diagnostic procedures, 35 neoplastic polyps were discovered, including two invasive carcinomas and one carcinoma in situ within reach of the sigmoidoscope. Other colorectal disorders, such as ulcerative proctitis, were readily diagnosed.