Complications of Colonoscopy and How to Reduce Them

Colonoscopy is fundamental to the diagnosis and treatment of colorectal diseases, with a strong overall safety profile; however, adverse events can still occur and significantly impact patient outcomes and health care utilization. This article summarizes the spectrum of colonoscopy-related complications, including sedation-related events, perforation, bleeding, and other rare but serious complications. It highlights patient-related, procedure-related, and operator-related risk factors, and emphasizes the need for evidence-based preventive strategies, meticulous technique, early recognition, and timely management to minimize morbidity and mortality.