Guide To Getting A Colonoscopy

Risks Of The Procedure

In individuals who are considered at average risk, complications occur in twenty-eight of every one thousand colonoscopies. The risk of complications increases when a doctor discovers abnormalities in the intestine. The risk also increases if the doctor has to remove a piece of tissue for a biopsy. One of the biggest complications of a colonoscopy is intestinal perforations. This is the presence of tiny tears or lacerations in the colon or rectum wall. These perforations are produced when an instrument accidentally puts too much pressure on the patient's bowel to the point of tearing the tissue.

Small intestinal perforations can be managed with bed rest, antibiotics, and watchful waiting. More significant intestinal perforations may require emergency surgical repair and medication. A patient who has tissue samples removed from their colon may experience post-procedure bleeding. Post-polypectomy electrocoagulation syndrome is another uncommon complication. It is caused by colon injury during the procedure.

Discover the details surrounding the recovery process next.