How are polyps removed?
Polyps develop in a variety of places throughout the body. In the alimentary canal, polyps are typically found in the stomach and large intestine. Polyps found in the stomach are typically removed during an EGD (or upper endoscopy). Polyps found in the large intestine (colon) are typically removed during a colonoscopy, but may also be removed during open abdominal surgery or sigmoidoscopy.
During a polyp removal
You will be given pain medication and a sedative. Depending on where the polyp is, your doctor will insert an endoscope into your mouth or a colonoscope through your rectum.
Depending on what your doctor finds, he or she may use a snare to remove a polyp (a growth) to test for certain diseases.
Are there any risks to a polyp removal?
As with any medical procedure, there are risks and you should talk to your doctor about what they are. Your doctor will be able to explain the risks and answer any questions you may have.
Potential complications with a polyp removal may include but are not limited to bleeding and perforation.
Recovery period for a polyp removal
Recovery times may vary, depending on the disease being treated. A procedure can take anywhere from 20 minutes to 1 hour. You should be able to go home the same day, however, if there are no complications.
This reference text contains information about a specific procedure and is provided by Boston Scientific Corporation for reference only. Please talk to your doctor about complete procedural information, potential risks, and questions that you may have.
References
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC), Upper Endoscopy. http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/upperendoscopy/index/htm accessed 1/15/07, Updated November 2004. Pub#05-4333.
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC), Colonoscopy. http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/upperendoscopy/index/htm accessed 1/15/07, Updated November 2005. Pub#05-4336.
