Our specialists have a vast clinical experience and are registered with the New Zealand Conjoint Committee for endoscopy accreditation.
We audit our outcomes and can guarantee that our quality is of the highest standard in NZ.
Colonoscopy is generally safe when performed by doctors who have been specially trained and are experienced in these procedures.
Significant complications can occur in up to 1 in 2,000 patients. The two most serious are: perforation/a hole in the bowel wall (the risk is increased if there is a need to remove large polyps) and bleeding. These complications are rare but if they occur the perforation can be fixed by surgery and occasionally even by sealing the perforation with clips at the time of the colonoscopy. Any bleeding usually is minor and, even if serious, can be treated via colonoscopy and rarely requires surgery.
Some patients might have a reaction to the sedatives or complications from underlying heart or lung disease.
Although complications after colonoscopy are uncommon, it is important to recognise early signs of possible complications. Contact your specialist if you notice severe abdominal pain, fever and chills, or rectal bleeding of more than half a cup. Note that bleeding can occur several days after the procedure.
