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Most U.S. reports on colonoscopy completion and complications are from academic centers. This report, however, comes from a private practice in La Crosse, Wisconsin. Data on complications were collected through monthly retrospective record reviews; data on completion were self-reported and were not verified independently.
From August 2002 through December 2004, 12,407 patients were referred for colonoscopy at this practice (mean age, 59.7; 48% men). Colonoscopies were completed to the cecum in 98% of patients, and polypectomies were performed in 41%. Causes for incomplete colonoscopy included inadequate preparation (21%) and obstructing cancer (9%). Hemorrhage that required hospitalization occurred in 25 cases (0.2%) — 23 after polypectomy a…