Mayoclinic.com describes a colonoscopy as one of the best yet simplest exams to detect changes or abnormalities in the colon or rectum. A colonoscopy can reveal diseases such as cancer before they reach their advanced stages. During the procedure, a flexible tube with a camera called a colonoscope is inserted through the anus and then gently advanced up to the lowest part of the intestines, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Though complications are not common, there are a few related to colonoscopy.
Perforation
According to the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, one possible complication of colonoscopy is perforation of the bowel walls. If the doctor should find polyps during the patient's colonoscopy, a polypectomy will be performed during the examination. Polyps are abnormal growths, usually benign or noncancerous, that grow in the colon lining. A polypectomy is the removal of these growths by burning, wire loops and snares or other biopsy instruments which unfortunately can tear a hole in the bowel wall. If perforation occurs, a surgery will be immediately required to close up the hole.
Bleeding
MedlinePlus lists bleeding as one of the common complications of colonoscopy. During a colonoscopy, the examining physician may come across an abnormality in the large intestine or rectum. In most cases, these abnormalities are caused by polyps but may sometimes be indicative of the early stages of cancer. If the physician has to remove tissue from the colon or rectum walls, bleeding may occur at the location in question. The bleeding may be very minor and stop on its own. If the doctors deem it fit, the bleeding can be controlled through the colonoscope during the biopsy.
Adverse Reactions to Sedatives
UMMC describes adverse reactions to sedatives as one of the complications of colonoscopy. A sedative is a substance that reduces irritability and calms the patient during various medical procedures. If requested, a doctor may administer sedatives to keep the patient relaxed during the colonoscopy. Some patients, however, may have some bad reactions to the sedatives used and have minor symptoms such as vomiting and nausea or more serious symptoms such as irregular heart beats.
