However, as with any medical procedure, complications are possible (although rare).
Risk of Perforation
A perforation is a tear or a hole in the intestine.
A large, visible perforation is an emergency and is treated through surgery to exit the tear.
Team Static / Getty Images
The risk of postpolypectomy syndrome after a colonoscopy during which a polypectomy was done is very low.
Treatment may include rest, intravenous fluids, and antibiotics.
During a colonoscopy, there is a very small risk of a serious respiratory effect from medications.
Risk of Infection
Infection after a colonoscopy is very rare.
An infection can be transmitted between patients if the endoscope is not cleaned and sterilized properly between tests.
The risk of this happening, however, is very low.
A Word From Verywell
A colonoscopy is a safe procedure.
Risks are typically not a reason to avoid having a colonoscopy.
2016;150(1):103-13. doi:10.1053/j.gastro.2015.09.009
American Cancer Society.Key Statistics for Colorectal Cancer.
Atlanta: American Cancer Society.
2015;5(5):29147. doi:10.3402/jchimp.v5.29147
Amornyotin S.Sedation-related complications in gastrointestinal endoscopy.World J Gastrointest Endosc.
2013;5(11):527533. doi:10.4253/wjge.v5.i11.527
