Overview
A polypectomy is a common, typically non-invasive procedure used to remove polyps—abnormal tissue growths—from the body, most frequently during a hysteroscopy, colonoscopy or endoscopy. By removing these growths, which can be benign or pre-cancerous, it prevents potential cancer development. Many healthcare providers recommend removing all polyps as a preventative measure. Even polyps that don’t appear to be cancerous, precancerous or cause symptoms can continue to grow and change and become problematic later on.
Polyps are very common, especially in certain places like your colon. Many people have them without realizing it. If your healthcare provider discovers a polyp or several during a routine exam, it’s usually nothing to worry about. Depending on the type of exam it is, they might be able to remove any polyps at first sight. If not, they’ll schedule a simple polypectomy.
You may need a polypectomy if you have polyps in your hollow organs, such as:
- Colon polyps.
- Uterine polyps.
- Stomach polyps.
- Gallbladder polyps.
Removing and examining these polyps is important for the screening and prevention of:
- Colorectal cancer.
- Cervical cancer.
- Stomach cancer.
- Gallbladder cancer.
Polyps may also need to be removed if they cause problems, such as:
- Uncontrolled bleeding.
- Pain or pressure on your organs.
- Blocking a blood vessel, bile duct or your intestines.
- Menstruation and fertility problems in your uterus.
A polypectomy is a minimally invasive procedure. Most polypectomies don’t even require cutting into your body to access the polyp. They can usually be managed internally, with medical instruments passed through the natural openings in your body.
Many polyps are removed when they’re discovered during a colonoscopy or endoscopy exam. These exams involve passing a lighted scope down your throat or through your anus and into your organs. Surgeons can perform minor operations through the scope. In certain, more difficult cases, your surgeon may need to access a polyp through your abdomen. They can do this through minimally invasive surgery methods, such as laparoscopy. That means passing a scope through one small “keyhole incision” and operating through another.
Types of Polypectomy
- Colon Polypectomy: Performed during a colonoscopy to remove growths in the large intestine. It is a primary method for preventing colorectal cancer.
- Uterine (Hysteroscopic) Polypectomy: Uses a hysteroscope to remove polyps from the lining of the uterus to address fertility issues or abnormal bleeding.
- Other Areas: Polyps can also be removed from the stomach, nose, cervix, or gallbladder.
Treatment
- Snare Polypectomy: A wire loop (snare) is placed around the base of the polyp. An electric current may be used to burn through the tissue and seal blood vessels.
- Forceps Polypectomy: Small polyps may be “snipped” off using specialized medical forceps.
- Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR): Used for larger or flatter polyps that require lifting the tissue before removal.
Recovery and Risks
- Recovery: Most patients go home the same day. For colon procedures, a soft diet is often recommended for the first few days. Full internal healing can take about two weeks.
- Pain: The procedure itself is usually painless because the inner linings of these organs lack many pain-sensing nerves, and sedation is typically provided.
- Risks: Although rare, complications can include bleeding or a small tear (perforation) in the organ wall.
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