SIGMOIDOSCOPE Meaning and
Definition
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A sigmoidoscope is a medical instrument primarily used for visual examination of the lower part of the large intestine, specifically the sigmoid colon. It is a flexible tube-like device that usually measures around 60 centimeters in length and is equipped with a light source, camera, and a viewing lens. The sigmoidoscope is inserted through the anus and, with its ability to bend and follow the natural curves of the colon, allows doctors to examine the lining of the sigmoid colon for any abnormalities or diseases, such as polyps, diverticulosis, or inflammatory bowel disease.
The sigmoidoscope typically consists of a flexible tube made of either fiber optics or a video chip system. This innovative technology enables high-resolution images of the sigmoid colon to be transmitted to a monitor, where the doctor can observe and analyze the structures and tissues in real-time. To facilitate this examination, the sigmoidoscope is often equipped with channels for air insufflation or water irrigation to enhance visualization and facilitate the removal of any small tissue samples or polyps for further investigation.
The procedure performed using a sigmoidoscope is known as a sigmoidoscopy. It is commonly employed for diagnostic purposes in patients presenting gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, or bowel habit changes. Additionally, sigmoidoscopy can be used to guide the placement of therapeutic devices or perform certain treatments, such as the removal of polyps or insertion of rectal stents. Sigmoidoscopy is considered a valuable tool in the early detection and screening of colorectal cancer, making it an essential component of routine medical examinations for individuals at risk or of a certain age.
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A long speculum for viewing the cavity of the sigmoid colon.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SIGMOIDOSCOPE
- aigmoidoscope
- zigmoidoscope
- xigmoidoscope
- digmoidoscope
- eigmoidoscope
- wigmoidoscope
- sugmoidoscope
- sjgmoidoscope
- skgmoidoscope
- sogmoidoscope
- s9gmoidoscope
- s8gmoidoscope
- sifmoidoscope
- sivmoidoscope
- sibmoidoscope
- sihmoidoscope
- siymoidoscope
- sitmoidoscope
- signoidoscope
- sigmodoscope
- Sigmoidascope
Etymology of SIGMOIDOSCOPE
The word "sigmoidoscope" is derived from the combination of two words: "sigmoid" and "scope".
1. "Sigmoid" comes from the Greek word "sigma" (Σ), which represents the Greek letter "S" (ᔆ or σίγμα), and the word "eidos" (είδος), meaning "form" or "shape". In medical terminology, "sigmoid" refers to the sigmoid colon, which is part of the large intestine. The sigmoid colon is shaped like the letter "S".
2. "Scope" comes from the Greek word "skopein" (σκοπεῖν), meaning "to see" or "to examine". It is commonly used as a suffix in the context of medical instruments that are used for visual examination or observation, such as "endoscope" or "microscope".
Similar spelling words for SIGMOIDOSCOPE
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