According to Gicare.com, a colonoscopy is an exam conducted by a gastroenterologist so as to check for colon abnormalities such as colon tumors, colon polyps, ulcers, inflammation and areas of bleeding. A colonoscopy is also used to check for the causes of unexplained weight loss and changes in bowel habits. Bleeding is an adverse side effect of colonoscopy. There are several causes of bleeding from a colonoscopy.
Polypectomy
Gicare.com states that colon polyps found during colonoscopy usually are removed, a process called polypectomy. During polypectomy, the doctor uses an electrical current to cut off polyps and cauterizes the tissue at the base of the polyps. Cauterization prevents bleeding during polypectomy. However, bleeding can occur at the site of the polypectomy several days after the polyp is removed. Signs of bleeding from polypectomy site include bright red blood in stool, black tarry stool, rectal bleeding, weakness and dizziness
Biopsy
According to Emedtv.com, bleeding during colonoscopy may occur after the doctor performs a biopsy. Biopsy is the removal of a sample of tissue from colon lining in order to further assess for colon abnormalities. Biopsy can cause colon bleeding especially if a large sample of tissue is removed. The doctor uses heat treatment to seal off bleeding blood vessels.
Bowel Perforation
According to Gicare.com, colon perforation can be caused by a colonoscope. A colonoscope is a fiberoptic tube that is used during colonoscopy. Bowel perforation or puncture may occur when the doctor is inserting the colonoscope deeper in the colon. Bowel perforation may also occur when the doctor is pumping carbon dioxide gas into the colon so as to inflate the colon.
Colon Lacerations
According to Emedtv.com, Colon lacerations are a minor cause of colon bleeding. Colon lacerations occur when the colonoscope scrapes the lining of the colon as the doctor advances the tube into the colon. Slight bleeding from lacerations may occur. Most colon lacerations heal fast and do not result in massive bleeding.
Treatment of Colon Bleeding
According to Gicare.com, doctors use heat treatment known as cauterization to seal off bleeding vessels in the colon. A probe with an electrical current is used to cauterize bleeding vessels. A tube containing special medication to stop bleeding may also be inserted into the colon and the medication applied to bleeding sites. Patients experiencing massive bleeding may require surgery and blood transfusions.
