Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 18, 2026
Structured Approach to Colonoscopy Technique Optimization: A Single-Center Experience with Novice Endoscopists
Published on: July 11, 2025
Endoscopist experience as a risk factor for colonoscopic complications
V Lorenzo-Zúñiga1, V Moreno de Vega, E Doménech
1Endoscopy Unit, Department of Gastroenterology, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain. vlorenzo.germanstrias@gencat.cat
Aim:
We aimed to determine the incidence of colonic perforation (CP) following colonoscopy and postpolypectomy bleeding (PPB) in a teaching hospital, assessing the influence of endoscopist experience as a risk factor.
Method:
All colonoscopies performed between 1995 and 2008 were reviewed. Demographic data, endoscopic procedure information, incidence of CP and PPB, and endoscopist experience were recorded.
Results:
In the 14-year period, 25,214 endoscopic colonic procedures were performed, and 3991 patients underwent polypectomy. The overall CP risk was 0.51/1000 procedures; and PPB 14.7/1000. The relative risk (RR) ratio of complications was 2.8/1000 procedures. The RR rate was highest for endoscopists performing less than 591 procedures per year (4.0/1000 [95% CI, 3.7-4.3] vs 2.9/1000 [95% CI, 2.6-3.2]), P < 0.001).
Conclusion:
The complication rate after colonoscopy was comparable to that previously reported. Colonoscopy carried out by a low-volume endoscopist was independently associated with bleeding and perforation.
Related Concept Videos
01:25Endoscopic Procedures II: Colonoscopy
01:26Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy
Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a flexible sigmoidoscope equipped with a light source and camera to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. The procedure involves inserting the tube through the anus...
01:29Endoscopic Procedures I: Esophagogastroduodenoscopy
During an EGD, the endoscope can be used to:
01:28Endoscopic Procedures III: Video Capsule Endoscopy
01:26Endoscopic Procedures V: ERCP
Patient...
01:26Imaging Studies III: Gastrointestinal Motility Studies and Virtual Colonoscopy
Radionuclide Testing
Radionuclide testing is a sophisticated medical technique for assessing gastrointestinal motility. It focuses on gastric emptying and colonic transit time. Radioactive markers track the movement of food through the digestive system, providing insights into gastrointestinal disorders.
In gastric emptying studies, a meal's liquid and solid...