Which instrument is used to examine the rectum and colon?

Which instrument is used to examine the rectum and colon?

• A. Colonoscope
• B. Proctoscope
• C. Sigmoidoscope
• D. Anoscope

Answer: (C)

The instrument designed to examine the rectum and the distal portion of the colon is the sigmoidoscope. It’s a shorter, flexible viewing instrument that reaches the rectum and the sigmoid colon, allowing visualization of the distal bowel for assessment of symptoms like rectal bleeding or changes in bowel habits, and it can obtain biopsies in that area. In contrast, a proctoscope and an anoscope are limited to the anal canal and lower rectum, while a colonoscope is longer and used to examine the entire colon from rectum through the proximal segments. So for examining the rectum and the distal colon, the sigmoidoscope is the most appropriate choice.

The instrument designed to examine the rectum and the distal portion of the colon is the sigmoidoscope. It’s a shorter, flexible viewing instrument that reaches the rectum and the sigmoid colon, allowing visualization of the distal bowel for assessment of symptoms like rectal bleeding or changes in bowel habits, and it can obtain biopsies in that area. In contrast, a proctoscope and an anoscope are limited to the anal canal and lower rectum, while a colonoscope is longer and used to examine the entire colon from rectum through the proximal segments. So for examining the rectum and the distal colon, the sigmoidoscope is the most appropriate choice.