Virtual Colonoscopy
Risks of the Procedure:
Colonsocopy is a safe and highly effective technique. In experienced hands, this procedure has the following risks:
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Bleeding |
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Allergic reaction to a medication |
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Perforation of the Colon |
Bleeding can occur up to 10 days after the procedure. The chance of bleeding will increase depending upon the number, location and size of polyps (if any) which are removed. Some patients have bleeding from hemorrhoids after the procedure.
An allergic reaction to a medication can occur. This is usually identified early since blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen saturation and general clinical condition are monitored during the entire procedure.
Perforation of the colon occurs when a hole is put through the colon. This can be associated with removal of polyps or simply passing the endoscope through the colon. This complication will usually result in a patient being treated in the operating room.
When all patients are included and all of the above are also included, the chance that one of the above complications will occur is about 1/1,000 cases.
Overall, colonoscopy is a well tolerated procedure that has many benefits and few complications when done for appropriate reasons by an experienced gastroenterologist.
The Procedure
In general, this procedure takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes to perform when done by a trained gastroenterologist. The procedure may take longer depending upon the intervention that may be required for any individual patient.
During the procedure, a fiber optic endoscope will be inserted into the anus. The scope will then be advance through the inside of the colon to the cecum (last part of the colon). Inspection, removal of polyps, etc. usually occur during withdrawal of the endoscope.
Patients undergoing this procedure usually receive a combination of intravenous anesthetics. These are usually Demerol (meperidine), Versed (midazolam) or Fentanyl. The exact combination, dose and frequency of each of these are individualized for each patient. In most cases, patients do not remember their procedure or are adequately sedated such that the discomfort is well tolerated.
During the procedure, the nurse assisting your physician with the procedure will continuously monitor your heart rate, oxygen saturation and blood pressure. Thus, should any difficulties occur, your physician and his team will be aware of the change quickly.
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Other Endoscopic Procedures
- Colonoscopy |
ERCP |
Esophageal Manometry |
EGD |
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy |
Liver Biopsy
Related Links
- Definitions |
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Patient Education:
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