What is polypectomy?
During the course of the examination, a polyp may be found. Polyps are abnormal growths of tissue, which vary in size from 1/8 inches to 2 inches. If your doctor feels that removal of the polyp is indicated, a wire loop or snare will be passed through the colonoscope and sever the attachment of the polyp from the intestinal wall by means of an electrical current. Polyps may be destroyed without removal and biopsies can be taken. Operating through the colonoscope often means that a major abdominal operation is not needed. You should not feel a lot of pain during treatment of the polyp. Polyps are usually removed because they can cause rectal bleeding or contain cancer. Although the majority of polyps are benign (noncancerous), a small percentage contain an area of cancer in them or may develop into cancer. Removal of colon polyps, therefore, is an important means of prevention and cure of colon cancer, which is a leading form of cancer in the United States. Are there any complications f
