Colon Polypectomy (Colon Polyp Removal)

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Colonoscopy is a common and very safe test that examines the lining of your lower intestinal tract. Colonoscopy means "to look inside the colon." During a complete colonoscopy, doctors who are well trained in this procedure (gastroenterologists) can see part of your small intestine as well as the end of your intestinal tract (the rectum). Removal of one or more polyps from the inside lining of the colon (large intestine). A polyp is a mass of tissue that may develop into cancer. Reasons for Procedure To remove a polyp, which is a possible cancer source. The greatest danger with intestinal polyps is their potential to turn into cancerous tumors. Noncancerous polyps are often removed as well, because they can cause troublesome symptoms. Additionally, a physician does not know if a polyp is precancerous until it is removed and examined under the microscope. Most polyps, however, do not cause symptoms, although rarely they may cause: Bleeding (resulting in rectal bleeding) Abdominal pain and cramping Description of the Procedure -- You lie on your side or on your back. A colonoscope, a soft, bendable tube approximately the thickness of the index finger, is inserted through the anus, and slowly pushed through the rectum to the colon. Using the colonoscope, the surgeon locates the polyp (or polyps), and surgically removes them with a wire snare, a surgical laser beam, by burning, or using an ultrasound. The method of removal depends on the size of the polyp. Bleeding during the surgery is controlled either by electrical current, or by pressure applied by gauze soaked in epinephrine. Once the removed polyp or polyps are preserved for laboratory testing, the colonoscope is slowly removed.How Long Will It Take? 30-60 minutes. The doctor uses a flexible tube, about the width of your index finger, which has been fitted with a miniature camera and a light to carefully examine the lining of your intestinal tract. This device (or "scope") is connected to a television monitor that your doctor watches while performing the test. Various miniaturized tools can be inserted through the scope to help your doctor obtain samples or biopsies of the colon and to perform a wide range of maneuvers to help diagnose or treat your condition. This explains why colonoscopy is an invaluable tool that helps your doctor answer important questions about your digestive health. (less)