Polypectomy
If the doctor sees a suspicious area or needs to evaluate an area of inflammation in greater detail, he can pass an instrument through the colonoscope and take a sample of tissue (a "biopsy") for examination in the laboratory. Biopsies are taken for many reasons and do not necessarily mean that cancer is suspected. A small brush can be introduced as well to collect cells from an abnormality.
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 a tiny dot to several inches. If your doctor feels that removal of the polyp is indicated he will pass a wire loop (snare) through the colonoscope and sever the polyp. If additional polyps are detected, they may be removed as well. You should feel no pain during removal of the polyp. Polyps are usually removed because they can cause rectal bleeding or may contain cancer. Although the majority of polyps are benign (non-cancerous), a small percentage may contain an area of cancer 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 cause of death in the US.
Are there any complications of colonoscopy and polypectomy?
One major possible complication is perforation, in which a tear through the wall may allow leakage of intestinal fluids. It may be managed with antibiotics and intravenous fluids; if this fails surgery is usually required.
Bleeding may occur from the site of biopsy or polyp removal. It is usually minor and stops on its own or can be controlled by cauterization (application of electric current) through the colonoscope. Rarely, transfusions or surgery may be required.
Localized irritation of the vein can occur at the site of injection. A tender lump develops which may remain for several weeks to several months but goes away eventually.
Why is colonoscopy necessary?
Colonoscopy is a valuable tool for the diagnosis and treatment of many diseases of the diagnosis and treatment of many diseases of the large intestine. It is useful for the diagnosis and follow-up of patients with inflammatory bowel disease as well.
Colonoscopy's greatest impact is probably in its contribution to the control of colon cancer by polyp removal. Before colonoscopy became available, major abdominal surgery was the only way to remove colon polyps to determine if they were benign or malignant. Now, most polyps can be removed easily and safely without surgery. Periodic colonoscopy is a valuable tool for follow- up of patients with previous polyps, colon cancer and family history of colon cancer.
