Flexible sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that is used to examine the lower part of the large intestine for potential abnormalities, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), colon polyps, or colon cancer. Some synonyms that can be used in lieu of flexible sigmoidoscopy include "proctosigmoidoscopy," "flexible colorectal sigmoidoscopy," and "flexible colonoscopy." These terms are often used interchangeably, but it is important to note that the extent of the colon examined during each procedure may differ. Flexible sigmoidoscopy generally examines only the rectum and sigmoid colon, while a full colonoscopy examines the entire length of the colon. Nonetheless, flexible sigmoidoscopy remains an important diagnostic tool for detecting and potentially preventing colorectal cancer.