BSG abstracts that traditionally quoted (1). The true complication rate of flexible sigmoidoscopy is of particular importance as the UK is introducing the Bowel Cancer Screening Programme (BCSP) by which all citizens will be offered the procedure at age 55. Methods The aim of this study was to identify the morbidity and related healthcare costs of unexpected hospital attendance following outpatient flexible sigmoidoscopy. An observational study of A&E attendances and admissions occurring within 14 days of all outpatient flexible sigmoidoscopies which took place in 2011 was conducted. All procedures took place at West Middlesex University Hospital, London. Data was collected using the hospital's electronic records system, enterpriseCAMIS®. Cases were analysed to assess whether reattendance could be attributed to the procedure, and healthcare costs were determined. Results Of the 1137 outpatient flexible sigmoidoscopies performed, 18 patients (1.58%) presented to A&E within 14 days. Only 2 of these attendances were thought to be related to the procedure (0.18%). 1 case resulted in a 5 day admission due to bleeding post polypectomy. The second A&E attendance was also due to bleeding. The cost of the above admission was £4,682. Including the related A&E attendance, the total financial burden of related reattendance following flexible sigmoidoscopy was approximately £4,827 in 2011. This equates to an additional cost of £4.25 per procedure.