• Many tumors of the colon develop as a benign (noncancerous) growth before becoming malignant (cancerous).
• A colonoscopy is first done to detect the presence of any polyps.
• If any are detected, a polypectomy is performed and the tissue is removed.
• The tissue will be examined to determine if the growths are cancerous, precancerous, or benign.
• This can prevent colon cancer.

Symptoms:

• Polyps aren’t often associated with any symptoms at all.
• However, larger polyps may cause: rectal bleeding, abdominal pain or bowel irregularities.
• A polypectomy would help relieve these symptoms as well.

Procedure:

• This procedure is required any time when polyps are discovered during a colonoscopy.
• A polypectomy is usually carried out at the same time as a colonoscopy.
• During a colonoscopy, a colonoscope will be inserted into your rectum so your doctor can see all segments of your colon.
• A colonoscope is a long, thin, flexible tube with a camera and a light at the end of it.
• Patient shouldn’t drive for 24 hours following a polypectomy.

Recovery is generally quick.

Minor side effects such as gassiness, bloating, and cramps usually resolve within 24 hours.

With a more involved procedure, a full recovery can take up to two weeks.

After procedure instructions:

• Your doctor will give you some instructions on how to care for yourself.
• They may ask you to avoid certain drinks and foods that can irritate your digestive system for two to three days after the procedure. These can include: tea, coffee, soda Alcohol, & spicy foods.
• Your doctor will also schedule you for a follow-up colonoscopy. It’s important to check that the polypectomy was successful and that no further polyps have developed.