However, as in any invasive procedure, there is always a possibility that problems can occur during and after the procedure. Physicians review the risks and anticipated benefits of the procedure with you beforehand, individualized to each person. As part of most hospital standards, you will be asked to sign an informed consent that basically outlines the general risks of gastrointestinal endoscopy. During the procedures there is a small risk of bleeding, more likely when a biopsy is taken or a growth removed. This is usually treated conservatively, but on extremely rare occasions a transfusion could be needed.
Infection is a risk in any invasive procedure like colonoscopy.
This condition will usually require surgery although there are some circumstances where this is not necessary. As noted above, most procedures are done with the aid of conscious sedation. This form of sedation is highly individualized to provide patient comfort while minimizing risk to the breathing and the cardiovascular systems, but some risk still persists.