Table 3.

 Key elements of the flexible sigmoidoscopy procedure report

Element	Examples and comments
Informed consent	The procedure, its indications, risks, benefits and alternatives were explained to the patient, who had an opportunity to ask questions, and indicated a desire to proceed.
Preparation quality	Good, fair, poor
Size, number and location of lesions	Size: in mm diameter; location in cm from the anal verge and in estimated colon segment
Presence of other abnormalities	Diverticulosis, haemorrhoids, inflammatory findings
Performance of retroflexion	May not be feasible or safe in all patients
Disposition	Barium enema or colonoscopy to be done soon, repeat sigmoidoscopy in 5 or 10 years, further follow up based on recommendations of primary care provider, clinicians identified as providing follow up care