Health Information
Sigmoidoscopy (Anoscopy, Proctoscopy)
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. But these problems are rare.
- There is also a slight chance of a colon infection (very rare).
Call your doctor immediately if you have:
- Heavy rectal bleeding.
- Severe abdominal pain.
- A fever.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference December 7, 2011 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Reference Arvydas D. Vanagunas, MD - Gastroenterology |
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