Test or procedure
Polypectomy
A polyp is a small growth on the inner lining of the large bowel. Polypectomy removes polyps during a colonoscopy, so they can be tested and cannot slowly turn into bowel cancer.
What it is
Most polyps are harmless, but some types can change into cancer over several years. Removing them early is one of the most effective ways to prevent bowel cancer. During colonoscopy, very small polyps are taken with tiny forceps, and larger ones are caught in a thin wire loop (snare) and cut off, sometimes after lifting them with an injection of fluid. Small clips may be placed to close the area and reduce bleeding. The bowel lining has no pain nerves, so you do not feel the polyp being removed. Every polyp is sent to a lab for testing.
Why it is done
- A polyp seen during colonoscopy
- A polyp found on a scan or an earlier test
- To prevent polyps from slowly turning into bowel cancer
- To find out exactly what type of polyp it is by lab testing
- A polyp that is bleeding and causing blood in the stools or anaemia
Before: how to prepare
- Follow the full colonoscopy preparation: a light, low-fibre diet, then clear liquids and the bowel-cleansing drink the day before.
- Blood thinners and aspirin matter more when polyps may be removed. Tell us well in advance; never stop them on your own, we will plan with you and, if needed, your heart doctor.
- Tell us if you take diabetes medicines or iron tablets, as these usually need changes before the test.
- Bring previous colonoscopy and polyp reports; they help us plan.
- Come with an adult who can take you home, because you will have sedation.
On the day
Colonoscopy begins
Under sedation, the colonoscope is passed gently around the large bowel as in a normal colonoscopy.
Polyp found
The doctor looks closely at each polyp to decide the best way to remove it.
Removal
Small polyps are taken with forceps; larger ones are caught in a snare and cut off. Fluid may be injected underneath first.
Securing the area
Small clips may be placed to reduce the chance of bleeding. They fall off on their own and pass out in the stools.
Recovery
You rest until the sedation wears off, and the doctor explains how many polyps were removed and what happens next.
After
- Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for a day or two, or longer if a large polyp was removed.
- A small streak of blood in the first motion or two can be normal.
- Bleeding can occasionally start up to about two weeks later. Call us or go to the nearest emergency if you pass more than a little blood or clots, or feel dizzy.
- Do not drive, ride a two-wheeler, operate machinery or sign important documents for the rest of the day.
- Ask the doctor before restarting any blood thinner, and follow the date she gives you.
- Get urgent help for severe tummy pain, a swollen, hard tummy, fever or vomiting.
Results. Polyps go to a lab, and results usually take a few days to a week. The type, size and number of polyps decide when you need your next colonoscopy, and Dr. Tumma will explain this at your follow-up.
Risks, explained honestly
Common and mild
- Bloating and cramping for a few hours
- A small amount of blood in the stools
- Drowsiness from the sedation
Rare but serious
- Heavier bleeding, straight away or up to about two weeks later, which may need another colonoscopy to stop it
- A tear (perforation) in the bowel wall, more likely with large polyps; rare but serious and may need surgery
- Pain and fever from irritation of the bowel wall where the polyp was removed, which usually settles with rest and medicines
Where it is done
Available at Sun Care and at Kamineni Hospitals. Dr. Tejaswini will advise which suits you, for example when sedation or a hospital stay is needed.
Fees are shared when you book.
Questions patients ask
Used for
Other tests
- Upper GI endoscopy10 min
- Colonoscopy20–30 min
- FibroScan10 min
- ERCP30–60 min
- Endoscopic ultrasound20–45 min
- Sigmoidoscopy10–15 min
- Variceal banding & glue15–30 min
Book a 15‑minute visit
At the clinic or online, Monday to Saturday. Pick a time and the front desk will confirm.
This page is general information reviewed by Dr. Tejaswini Tumma. It does not replace a consultation.