Colonoscopy is usually a risk free procedure, but as is the case with all medical procedures, sometimes complications might occur. In a routine colonoscopy, the chances of a risk are extremely low but in cases where the polyp or the polpectomy has to be removed, the risk involved is a trifle higher. The risk of an average person developing colon cancer is the higher side though.
The most common complications in colonoscopy include perforation in the intestines, excessive bleeding, unexpected reaction to sedatives and bowel infection. But these are very rare complications and usually are more prevalent in colonoscopies involving polyp removal.
Preparation Complications
Complications during the preparation for a colonoscopy are not very common and are usually only in older patients and ones with heart problems. Cleaning the bowels properly before colonoscopy reduces the risk.
Bleeding
There are very low chances of a complication due to bleeding during colonoscopy and even when it does, it is resolved on it own. There are more chances of bleeding during polyp removal and even this is usually resolved on its own.
Perforation
A tear or a hole in the intestine is referred to as a perforation. It usually occurs during colonoscopy if an instrument punctures the colon wall during the procedure. The risk of a perforation during colonoscopy is usually in cases where the polyp is removed. In cases of small perforation, surgery is not mandatory. It can be treated with proper monitoring, adequate rest and antibiotics.
Postpolypectomy Syndrome
If the patient suffers a burn to the bowel wall during polyp removal, it is referred to as postpolypectomy syndrome. The patient experiences fever and abdominal pain and the white blood cell count increases. Treatment for this includes prescribed fluids, proper rest and antibiotics.
Anesthetic Medication Effects
To make the patient comfortable during colonoscopy, certain sedatives are administered. This might cause allergic reactions or respiratory problems. Other side effects include rashes on the skin where the injection is given, vomiting, nausea and a drop in blood pressure.
Infection
Chances of an infection after colonoscopy are very low. An infection can be passed on from one patient to another if the endoscope is not sterilized properly between tests.
These are the main risks involved during colonoscopy. Approaching a specialist rather than a family doctor and taking advice from an anaesthesiologist is advised. Frequent checks can help detect a benign polyp that might turn cancerous, especially if there is a history.
