Complications of Colonoscopy

Craig A. Reickert; David E. Beck

doi:10.1055/s-2001-18517

Clinics in Colon and Rectal Surgery, Table of Contents

Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2001; 14(4): 379-386
DOI: 10.1055/s-2001-18517

Complications of Colonoscopy

Craig A. Reickert¹ , David E. Beck²

¹Department of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Ochsner Clinic Foundation, New Orleans, LA
²Department of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Ochsner Clinic Foundation, New Orleans, LA

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Colonoscopy is a common procedure that allows for direct inspection of the colonic mucosal surface to identify and treat polyps, neoplasms, vascular lesions, and inflammatory bowel disease. It is an invasive procedure, but complications are infrequent. Minor complications include problems related to mechanical bowel preparation, intravenous medications, cardiorespiratory effects, infections, abdominal pain, and bloating. Major complications include perforation, hemorrhage, and postpolypectomy coagulation syndrome. This article discusses the prevention, identification, and management of these complications.

KEYWORD

Colonoscopy - complications - perforation - hemorrhage - postpolypectomy syndrome

Full Text

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