A colonoscopy is a test that enables a physician to examine the lower part of the digestive system, particularly the colon and rectum, to determine the existence of any abnormalities, including inflamed tissue, polyps, ulcers, bleeding, muscle spasms and tumors. The doctor uses a long, flexible, lighted instrument called a colonoscope to view the inside of the colon. It is generally a noninvasive medical test, but the side effects of colonoscopy are similar to those of other, similar medical procedures.
Bleeding
Bleeding after a colonoscopy is not a common complication. Most episodes of bleeding are mild and stop on their own. If bleeding is discovered during the colonoscopy, however, the treatment can be applied immediately. The surgeon may cauterize, or heat treat, a bleeding site. There is a risk of bleeding when the doctor or nurse takes a biopsy of any abnormal tissue, or cuts off polyps or any other abnormal growths, according to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.
Perforation
While unlikely to occur, perforation is a hole or tear that develops in the colon wall. It results when a colonic wall is hyperdilated, becoming excessively thin, and a medical instrument, such as the colonoscope, is advanced too deeply. A tear in the wall of the colon may be life-threatening if it is large enough to spill stool from the colon into the abdominal cavity. It can put patients at risk for infections that may spread to other parts of the body.
Infection
Very few cases of infection after colonoscopy have been reported, according to the National Cancer Institute. Colonoscopes are classified as critical items and must be sterilized according to strict protocols after each patient use. If not properly sterilized, infection may be transmitted between patients. Disinfection and sterilization are also important when a colonoscope is not used for a long period of time, which would allow the growth of pathogenic fungus and bacteria.
