Polyps and Polypectomy Procedure
Polypectomy is the procedure to remove abnormally grown tissues known as polyps. Colon polypectomy is the removal of polyps from the inner colon lining. Usually, when you are undergoing a colonoscopy , the doctor will complete the polypectomy surgery during the procedure if they find any polyps. However, if a polyp is detected during any non-invasive procedure such as a CT scan, then the polypectomy is specifically carried out for removal of the polyp.
The test is called so because the machine used for the test is a FibroScan ®. The test can be used in conjunction with other tests such as imaging and blood reports to get a holistic overview about the health of your liver.
Procedure
Before performing the polypectomy, the gastroenterologist surgeon will conduct a physical examination, blood test, X-ray and review any existing medications. Enema or oral preparation will be administered to ensure that your colon is entirely clean to ensure that the view is not blocked during the procedure.
On the day of the procedure, you will lie down on your back and the endoscopy will be inserted into your body through the anus. Once the scope reaches the colon, polypectomy of bowel is performed. The scope also adds air to ensure better view during the procedure. The gastroenterologist surgeon removes the scope and takes the polyp for examination.
The polyp can be removed in three different ways generally:
Snare technique:The loop, also known as snare, grabs and removes the polyps which are relatively larger. Snare can use cold or hot forceps technique.
Know the Risks of a Polypectomy
The polypectomy of bowel creates a risk of perforation. Moreover, the process can also increase the spread of an already existing infection in your GI system. In rare cases, the bowel might be cut during the colon polypectomy, in which case, you would have to undergo emergency surgery to repair the cut.
Nowadays such perforations can be closed with endoscopic clips without surgery if small.
Sometimes, after the polyp is removed, sometimes, you would need a second colon polypectomy if the polyp is not entirely eliminated. You can also experience excessive bleeding combined with one or more of the following symptoms, in which case you must immediately confer with the doctor:
- Fever
- Puking
- Dizziness
- Abdominal bloating
Post Polypectomy and Recovery
The recovery from polypectomy surgery is generally smooth and takes up to 2 weeks. You will have to stay off certain foods and drinks as recommended by the surgeon for a few days. The doctor will also schedule a follow-up colonoscopy to ensure that no polyps have reformed and the process was successful.
The doctor will also determine a further treatment plan based on the kind of polyps that are discovered. If they are pre-cancerous, cancer can be prevented from occurring. Even in the case of cancerous polyps, you must know that colon cancer is treatable.
