sigmoidoscope

[sig-moi-duh-skohp]

noun

1. a rigid or flexible endoscope for visual examination of the rectum and sigmoid colon.

sigmoidoscope

/ ˌsɪɡmɔɪdˈɒskəpɪ, sɪɡˌmɔɪdəˈskɒpɪk, sɪɡˈmɔɪdəˌskəʊp /

noun

1. an instrument incorporating a light for the direct observation of the colon, rectum, and sigmoid flexure

Other Word Forms

• sigmoidoscopy noun
• sigmoidoscopic adjective
• sigmoidoscopist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of sigmoidoscope¹

1900–05; sigmoid ( flexure ) + -o- + -scope

Example Sentences

For decades, oncologists have debated the merits of screening for colorectal cancer with a sigmoidoscope, and the new National Cancer Institute study aims to put this long-standing debate to rest.

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