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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    Are there risks associated with having a colonoscopy?

  • Find a professional to answer your question

  • Dr Shekhar Sharma

    Colorectal Surgeon (Bowel), General Surgeon, Laparoscopic Surgeon

    As a general surgeon with 20+ years of experience, I strongly believe in “ethical & quality care”. I offer all general surgical services (e.g. scopes, … View Profile

    While colonoscopy is generally considered safe, there are some rare risks associated with it:

    • Perforation (a tear in the bowel wall), which may require surgery.

    • Bleeding at biopsy or polyp removal sites.

    • Adverse reactions to sedation.

    These complications are uncommon when performed by experienced professionals but should still be discussed with your doctor beforehand.

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