Endoscopy (cont.)
What are the risks of endoscopy?
Endoscopy is a safe procedure and when performed by a physician with
specialized training in these procedures, the complications are
extremely rare. They may include localized irritation of the vein
where the medication was administered, reaction to the medication or
sedatives used, complications from pre-existing heart, lung, or liver
disease, bleeding may occur at the site of a biopsy or removal of a
polyp (which if it occurs is almost always minor and rarely requires
transfusions or surgery). Major complications such as perforation
(punching a hole through the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum) are rare but usually require
surgical repair.
What if there are still remaining questions
about endoscopy?
If the patient still has any questions about their need for this exam, the
cost of this procedure and whether it is covered by the patient's insurance,
methods of billing, or any concerns about this exam, do not
hesitate to speak to the doctor or his staff about them.
Most endoscopists are highly trained specialists and will be happy to
discuss with the patient their qualifications and answer any questions.
Last Editorial Review: 2/27/2009
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