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. Enteroscope

Answer: (C)

This question tests which instrument targets the distal large intestine, specifically the rectum and the nearby portion of the colon. The sigmoidoscope is designed to reach the rectum and the sigmoid colon, allowing visualization of that region. It is shorter than a colonoscope, which is used to examine the entire colon from rectum to cecum, and longer than a proctoscope, which views the rectum alone. The enteroscope is intended to examine the small intestine. Therefore, for examining the rectum and a portion of the colon (the sigmoid colon), the sigmoidoscope is the appropriate tool.

This question tests which instrument targets the distal large intestine, specifically the rectum and the nearby portion of the colon. The sigmoidoscope is designed to reach the rectum and the sigmoid colon, allowing visualization of that region. It is shorter than a colonoscope, which is used to examine the entire colon from rectum to cecum, and longer than a proctoscope, which views the rectum alone. The enteroscope is intended to examine the small intestine. Therefore, for examining the rectum and a portion of the colon (the sigmoid colon), the sigmoidoscope is the appropriate tool.