Investigation of Cecal Intubation Rates and Pain Levels Between Water Exchange and Air Insufflation Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

Plain-language summary

This study evaluates how often patients without sedation that receive screening sigmoidoscopy are able to have their full colon examined without significant discomfort by comparing a new colonoscopy technique known as the water exchange technique to the traditional air insufflation technique. It compares the differences between complete colon exam rates for water exchange when compared to the traditional air technique. Patients will be randomised and blinded to the procedure type. Previous studies have shown that the water exchange method is associated with a significant reduction in discomfort and often allows patients to receive colonoscopy without sedation or with only minimal sedation. However, the potential for water exchange to be used in the screening setting has yet to be evaluated. As per standard practices in sigmoidoscopy screening, patients will not be sedated. However, unlike standard practices in sigmoidoscopy screening, while maintaining minimal levels of discomfort, the investigators will attempt to scope beyond the distal colon.

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