Analysis of delayed postpolypectomy bleeding in a colorectal clinic

The colonoscopic polypectomy has become a valuable procedure for removing precursors of colorectal cancer, but some complications can be occurred. The most common complication after colonoscopic polypectomy is bleeding, which is reported to range from 1% to 6% and which can be immediate or delayed. Because the management of delayed postpolypectomy bleeding could be difficult, the use of preventive technique and reductions of risk factors are essential.

From January 2007 to December 2008, delayed hemorrhage occurred in 18 of the 1,841 polypectomy patients examined by one endoscopist. These cases were reviewed retrospectively for risk factors, pathologic findings, and treatment methods.

Delayed bleeding occurred in 18/1,841 patients (0.95%). The mean age was 55.9 ± 10.9 years, and the male-to-female ratio was 8:1. The most common site was the right colon (11 cases, 61.1%), and the average polyp size was 9.2 ± 2.8 mm. Delayed bleeding was identified from 1 to 5 days after resection (mean, 1.6 ± 1.2 days). The most common macroscopic type of polyp was a sessile polyp (10 cases, 55.6%), and histologic finding was a tubular adenoma in 13 cases (72.2%). Seventeen cases were treated with clipping for hemostasis and 1 case with epinephrine injection.

The right colon and a sessile polyp were associated with an increase in delayed postpolypectomy bleeding. Reducing risk factors and close observation were essential in high risk patients, and prompt management with hemoclips was effective.