Sigmoidoscopy (Anoscopy, Proctoscopy): Risks
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Risks
There is very little risk of complications from having an anoscopy, proctoscopy, or sigmoidoscopy.
- There is a slight chance of piercing the colon (perforation) or causing severe bleeding by damaging the wall of the colon. However, these problems are rare.
- There is also a slight chance of a colon infection (very rare).
Call your health professional immediately if you have:
- Heavy rectal bleeding.
- Severe abdominal pain.
- A fever.
| Last updated: | May 08, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS |
| Reviewed By: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Jerome B. Simon, MD, FRCPC, FACP - Gastroenterology |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer |
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