Colonoscopy heart risk

Marty · Jan 3, 2004

A research article from St. Mark's Hospital London reported harmful cardiovascular effects from conventional standard colonoscopy in December 03 issue Radiology.
For example, in addition to the well known risk of perforation, hypoxia, hypotension, and arrythmias were found even when modern equipment and sedation techniques were used. Those at
particularly increased risk include the elderly and patients with a history of heart disease. Virtual colonoscopy,much less invasive and requiring no sedation, was tolerated with very few side effects.

Tony · Jan 3, 2004

Dr. Marty,

Thanks for the info.

KimC · Jan 5, 2004

Marty, I have a baby crying, so I can't reply long but during my last colonoscopy in October, my heart rate kept dropping and I was given some kind of meds. My GI guy joked afterwards that I won't need another test for a long, long time if he can help it.

Best,

Missy · Jan 6, 2004

Is it difficult to find a hospital that does the virtual colonoscopy? Expecially one that is close.

Marty · Jan 6, 2004

Availability of Virtual Colonoscopy

Availability of Virtual Colonoscopy

Missy, The bugs have been worked out and virtual colonoscopy is now ready for "prime time". I don't know where you live in beautiful New Mexico but I am sure the giant Lovelace Clinic group is doing it in Albuquerque and probably at other locations. Check with your insurer also , they are just beginning to pay in many locations.

Missy · Jan 6, 2004

Marty, thanks for the information. I will have to check that out. There is a Lovelace in Albuquerque. I live 225 mi. from Albuquerque. In Southern N M. Would be closer to El Paso. But I like Alb. better. for everything especially medical. My husband has to go there often to see his orthopedic surgeon.
It has been awhile since I have talked to you. I see your posts on here and think about you.
You have helped me very much with the information that you always seem to have. Way back there we had some one on one and I really made use of some of it. I have never thanked you before so I am doing so now. THANKS!!!