Colon Polyps
Colon polyps are small growths that form on the lining of the large intestine (colon). There are several types of colon polyps. Some of them can turn into colon cancer. However, most colon polyps are harmless.
During colonoscopies and flexible sigmoidoscopies used for colon cancer screenings, doctors will often remove colon polyps and have them tested for cancer.
The removal of colon polyps is called a polypectomy. They are usually removed using a colonoscope, the instrument used during colonoscopies. If the polyp is small, it is snipped and the tissue is removed. If a polyp is a bit larger, they are removed with a wire loop that cauterizes the removal site to prevent bleeding. We recommend that all patients having a colonoscopy give us permission ahead of time to remove polyps if they are discovered.
In rare cases, colon polyps may be too large to remove during a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy. These polyps are removed during minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery.
Contact Wake Endoscopy Center
To learn more about removing colon polyps, contact Wake Endoscopy Center to get information and make an appointment. Call us at (919) 783-4888 or contact us online.
