When a Routine Colonoscopy Turns Into a Medical Emergency

The Hidden Dangers of a Common Procedure

Colonoscopy is one of the most frequently performed diagnostic procedures in the U.S., used to detect colon cancer, remove polyps, and assess gastrointestinal health. It’s generally safe—but when performed negligently, a routine colonoscopy can become a life-threatening emergency.

At Buckeye Law Group, we represent Ohio patients who were harmed by avoidable complications during or after colonoscopies. If your routine screening resulted in serious injury, you may have a medical malpractice case.

How Colonoscopies Can Go Wrong

Although colonoscopies are performed thousands of times per day, complications arise when medical professionals fail to follow proper standards of care. Common examples of negligence include:

1. Perforated Colon

• A tear or puncture in the intestinal wall can cause internal bleeding and infection
• May require emergency surgery and extended hospitalization

2. Incorrect Sedation

• Over-sedation can lead to respiratory failure
• Under-sedation may cause trauma or panic mid-procedure

3. Improper Instrument Use

• Damage caused by poorly sterilized or mishandled instruments
• Can lead to infections or injury to surrounding organs

4. Failure to Recognize or Treat Complications

• Delayed recognition of internal bleeding, sepsis, or perforation
• Lack of follow-up can worsen outcomes significantly

What the Warning Signs Look Like

After a negligent colonoscopy, patients may experience:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Fever and chills
• Rapid heart rate or low blood pressure
• Rectal bleeding
• Difficulty breathing or confusion

These symptoms indicate a medical emergency—and require immediate intervention.

Legal Grounds for a Malpractice Claim

Not all complications are malpractice. But if your medical team:

• Failed to inform you of risks
• Failed to properly perform the procedure
• Ignored signs of internal injury
• Did not provide timely follow-up care

…you may have grounds for a medical negligence case. At Buckeye Law Group, we’ll review your case and consult medical experts to determine if the standard of care was breached.

Long-Term Consequences

A botched colonoscopy can leave patients with:

• Bowel damage
• Permanent colostomies
• Chronic pain
• Emotional trauma
• Financial strain due to missed work and medical bills

We pursue full compensation for:

• Medical and surgical costs
• Lost income and diminished future earnings
• Pain, suffering, and reduced quality of life
• Disability and home care expenses

Let Us Help You Reclaim Control

You trusted your doctors to keep you safe—and when they failed, they must be held accountable. Our attorneys understand both the legal and medical aspects of your case and are prepared to fight for your future.

Request a free consultation with Buckeye Law Group and let us help you hold negligent healthcare providers responsible.

Ask ChatGPT