What should you know about colon polyp removal?

A clinician usually passes a small instrument through the colonoscope to cut or lift away the polyp. The removed tissue is sent to a laboratory, and the findings help determine whether another colonoscopy is needed and when.

The technique depends on the polyp's size, shape and position. A small polyp may be removed with forceps or a wire loop called a snare. A larger or flatter polyp may require fluid placed beneath it before removal, removal in pieces, or a separate planned procedure.

You may not feel the removal itself because the inner lining of the colon does not sense cutting in the same way as skin. Sedation can make you drowsy, so arrange transport and follow the unit's instructions about driving and important decisions afterward.

Follow the bowel-preparation and fasting directions exactly, because a clear colon helps the clinician see and remove polyps. Before the appointment, provide a complete medication list, especially medicines that affect clotting, and do not stop prescribed treatment unless the clinical team gives specific instructions.

After removal, mild bloating, wind or a small amount of rectal bleeding can occur. Rest as advised, drink fluids once permitted and return to food according to your discharge plan. Keep the written instructions and confirm how laboratory results will be communicated.

Contact the treating unit promptly for increasing abdominal pain, fever, repeated vomiting, dizziness, weakness, a swollen or rigid abdomen, heavy rectal bleeding, blood clots, or black stools. Seek emergency help for fainting, breathing difficulty or severe rapidly worsening pain.

Bleeding can occasionally begin after you have gone home, so use the discharge contact details even if symptoms appear later. Tell the clinician that you recently had a colon polyp removed and describe the amount and colour of any bleeding.

Ask how many polyps were found, whether each was completely removed, when the laboratory report should arrive and what the result means for follow-up. Also clarify which medicines to restart, which activities to avoid and whom to call outside clinic hours.