What Happens If Your Doctor Finds a Polyp During a Colonoscopy?
Finding a polyp during a colonoscopy is common, and in most cases, it is not a reason to panic. Colon polyps are small growths that develop on the lining of the colon or rectum. While many polyps are harmless, certain types can eventually develop into colorectal cancer.
One of the major benefits of a colonoscopy is that your gastroenterologist can often identify and remove polyps during the same procedure.
What Is a Colon Polyp?
A colon polyp is a growth that forms on the inner lining of the colon. Polyps can vary in size and shape, and most do not cause noticeable symptoms.
There are several types of colon polyps. Some have little or no potential to become cancerous, while others are considered precancerous.
Because it is usually impossible to determine exactly what type of polyp is present simply by looking at it, removed tissue is typically sent to a laboratory for examination.
Are Colon Polyps Cancer?
Most colon polyps are not cancer.
However, some types of polyps can slowly develop into colorectal cancer over time. This is one reason routine colorectal cancer screening is so important.
A colonoscopy doesn't just help doctors find colorectal cancer early. It can actually help prevent cancer by allowing precancerous polyps to be identified and removed before they have an opportunity to progress.
What Happens When a Polyp Is Found During a Colonoscopy?
When your gastroenterologist identifies a polyp during a colonoscopy, it can often be removed immediately.
Different techniques may be used depending on the size, shape, and location of the polyp. Small polyps can often be removed using instruments passed through the colonoscope.
You are typically sedated during the procedure and should not feel the polyp being removed.
The tissue is then usually sent to a pathology laboratory for examination.
How Long Does It Take to Get Colon Polyp Results?
Pathology results are not usually available immediately after your colonoscopy.
Your gastroenterologist will review the laboratory findings once they are available and explain what type of polyp was removed and whether additional follow-up is recommended.
The results can also help determine when you should have your next colonoscopy.
When Do You Need Another Colonoscopy After Polyps Are Found?
There is no single schedule that applies to everyone.
Your gastroenterologist may consider:
The number of polyps found
The size of the polyps
The type of polyps
Whether the polyps were completely removed
The quality of your bowel preparation
Your age and overall health
Your personal and family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
Some patients will need their next colonoscopy sooner than patients whose examination did not reveal polyps.
Always follow the screening schedule recommended specifically for you.
Can Colon Polyps Come Back?
Removing a polyp eliminates that particular growth, but it does not prevent new polyps from developing elsewhere in the colon.
Patients who have previously had certain types of polyps may have an increased likelihood of developing additional polyps. Regular surveillance can therefore be an important part of ongoing colorectal health.
Do Colon Polyps Cause Symptoms?
Most colon polyps do not cause symptoms, which is another reason screening is so valuable.
When symptoms do occur, they may include rectal bleeding, blood in the stool, changes in bowel habits, or unexplained anemia. These symptoms can have many possible causes and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
The Importance of Colonoscopy for Polyp Detection
A colonoscopy allows your gastroenterologist to examine the colon and, when appropriate, remove suspicious polyps during the same procedure.
Dr. David Beyda provides gastroenterology consultations at his Fresh Meadows office and performs colonoscopy procedures at Rego Park Endoscopy Center in Queens.
If you are due for colorectal cancer screening, have a history of colon polyps, or have questions about when you should have your next colonoscopy, schedule a consultation with Dr. Beyda.