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Polypectomy

A polypectomy is a procedure used to remove an abnormal growth called a polyp from the digestive tract.

Polypectomy – Complete Details

A polypectomy is a procedure used to remove an abnormal growth called a polyp from the digestive tract.

Polyps are commonly found in the:

  • Colon (most common)
  • Stomach
  • Esophagus
  • Small intestine

It is usually performed during:

  • Colonoscopy
  • OGDscopy (Upper GI endoscopy)
  • Sigmoidoscopy

What is a Polyp?

A polyp is a small growth arising from the inner lining of the gastrointestinal tract.

Some polyps are harmless, while others may:

  • Bleed
  • Cause symptoms
  • Turn cancerous over time

Removing them helps prevent cancer and allows biopsy examination.

Why is Polypectomy Done?

Doctors advise polypectomy when:

  • A polyp is seen during endoscopy/colonoscopy
  • There is bleeding from the GI tract
  • Positive stool occult blood test
  • Unexplained anemia
  • Change in bowel habits
  • Family history of colon cancer/polyps
  • Suspicious growth seen on scans

Symptoms That May Suggest Polyps

Many polyps cause no symptoms.

Possible symptoms include:

  • Blood in stool
  • Black stool
  • Constipation or diarrhea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Anemia
  • Weight loss
  • Difficulty swallowing (esophageal polyps)

Types of Polyps

Based on Shape

  1. Pedunculated polyp
    • Attached with a stalk
  2. Sessile polyp
    • Flat and broad-based

Based on Histology

  • Hyperplastic polyp
  • Adenomatous polyp (precancerous)
  • Inflammatory polyp
  • Serrated polyp

How is Polypectomy Performed?

During Colonoscopy or Endoscopy

The procedure is usually done immediately after finding the polyp.

Methods Used

1. Cold Forceps Removal

Used for very tiny polyps.

2. Cold Snare Polypectomy

A wire loop cuts small polyps without electric current.

3. Hot Snare Polypectomy

Electric current is used to remove medium or large polyps.

4. EMR (Endoscopic Mucosal Resection)

Used for larger flat lesions.

5. ESD (Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection)

Advanced technique for large early cancers.

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Is the Procedure Painful?

Usually no.

  • Colon polypectomy is generally done under sedation.
  • Upper GI polypectomy may use throat spray plus sedation.
  • Patients usually do not feel pain during the procedure.

Afterwards, mild:

  • Gas
  • Cramping
  • Bloating

may occur temporarily.


Preparation Before Polypectomy

For Colon Polypectomy

  • Bowel preparation (PEG solution/laxatives)
  • Fasting for several hours
  • Blood tests may be required:
    • CBC
    • PT/INR
    • RFT
    • Viral markers

Medicines That May Need Adjustment

Inform the doctor if taking:

  • Blood thinners
  • Aspirin
  • Diabetes medicines
  • BP medications

How Long Does it Take?

  • Small polypectomy: 15–30 minutes
  • Large/complex polyp removal: longer

Recovery After Polypectomy

Most patients go home the same day.

Common Temporary Symptoms

  • Mild abdominal discomfort
  • Small amount of blood in stool
  • Gas or bloating

Recovery Time

  • Usually 24–48 hours for routine procedures

Diet After Polypectomy

Initially:

  • Soft, light diet
  • Plenty of fluids

Avoid for a few days:

  • Alcohol
  • Very spicy food
  • Heavy meals

If a large polyp was removed, doctors may advise:

  • Low-residue diet temporarily

Possible Risks & Complications

Polypectomy is generally safe, but complications can occur.

1. Bleeding

Most common complication.

2. Perforation

Small hole in intestine/stomach wall (rare).

3. Infection

Uncommon.

4. Post-polypectomy Syndrome

Pain and fever due to thermal injury.


When to Seek Urgent Medical Help

Contact a doctor immediately if there is:

  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Heavy rectal bleeding
  • Fever
  • Vomiting
  • Dizziness
  • Black stools
  • Difficulty breathing

What Happens to the Removed Polyp?

The polyp is sent for biopsy/histopathology to determine:

  • Type of polyp
  • Cancer risk
  • Whether complete removal occurred

Biopsy results usually take a few days.


Follow-Up Colonoscopy

Future surveillance depends on:

  • Number of polyps
  • Size
  • Histology
  • Cancer risk

Some patients may need repeat colonoscopy in:

  • 1 year
  • 3 years
  • 5 years

Benefits of Polypectomy

  • Prevents colorectal cancer
  • Stops bleeding
  • Removes precancerous lesions
  • Avoids surgery in many cases
  • Allows early diagnosis

Important Point

Most colon cancers begin as polyps. Early detection and removal through polypectomy can significantly reduce cancer risk.

Book Your Appointment Today with Dr. Dipak B.

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