RISK OF COLONOSCOPY AND GASTROSCOPY

Common Problems:

  • Bloating & Discomfort - there may be some air remaining in the large bowel as a result of the procedure. Usually no treatment is required to fix this.  Walking and moving around helps pass the trapped air.  Use of peppermint tea, antacids and antispasmodics may help.
  • Nausea & vomiting - some patients may experience nausea and/or vomiting post procedure as a result of the anaesthetic.  Medications can be given for this and generally will relieve the symptoms quickly.
  • Bruising at the injection site - some patients may experience soreness, reddening or bleeding at the injection site. A pressure bandage and cold packs may be applied to stop bleeding and minimise bruising.

Uncommon Problems:

  • Bleeding -major bleeding from the stomach or bowel can occur in 1 in 10,000 people following a biopsy and 1 in 1,00 after the removal of a polyp.  Occasionally bleeding may occur up to 2 weeks after the procedure. Bleeding usually settles without further treatment.  Occasionally another gastroscopy or colonoscopy is needed to stop the bleeding. Rarely, transfer to hospital for observation, a blood transfusion or surgery may be necessary.

Rare Problems:

  • Perforation (Puncture or tear of the large intestine, stomach or oesophagus) - At colonoscopy, perforation of the large intestine may occur in 1 in 5000 cases. The risk is higher, up to 1 in 100 cases if a large polyp is removed.  At gastroscopy, the risk of perforation of the gullet (oesophagus) is 1 in 100 if a dilatation is performed. Treatment involves fluids and antibiotics via intravenous drip and the tear may require surgical repair.
  • Intra abdominal injury (including splenic contusion) - injury to the wall of the large intestine and spleen may occur resulting in bruising and inflammation.  Treatment involves admission to hospital for observation and some patients may require surgical intervention.
  • Anaesthetic Risks - About 1 in 10,000 people may experience heart or lung problems such as low blood pressure, irregular heart beat or low oxygen levels. People with ill health are at greater risk.  Medications may be given to reverse the effects of sedation.  Medical resuscitation may be required.  Please discuss your concerns with your anaesthetist.
  • Aspiration - Some patients may vomit during the procedure and rarely some of the stomach contents can enter the lungs and cause pneumonia.  This is referred to as aspiration.  If pneumonia occurs, you may be transferred to the ward for observation as an inpatient and given intravenous fluids and antibiotics.
  • Drug Reaction - Some patients may experience an allergic reaction to one or more of the anaesthetic drugs.  You may require intravenous drugs to stop the reaction and admission as an inpatient for ongoing observation.
  • Missed Cancer - Due to the nature of the anatomy and preparation of the gut, it is possible to miss small cancers and other disorders in approximately one in 1000 procedures.
  • Damage to Teeth - All attempts are made to protect teeth however it is possible for teeth or crowns to be damaged during the procedure.
  • Death is a rare complication (<0.01%)