How long does colonoscopy take to work for familial adenomatous polyposis?

Familial adenomatous polyposis can cause many adenomatous polyps in the large bowel. During colonoscopy, the clinician assesses their number, size, location, and appearance. Some accessible polyps may be removed or biopsied at that visit. This gives immediate visual information, but a camera cannot determine every cell change. A laboratory examines removed tissue, and the report supports decisions about surveillance or other treatment. Because FAP is inherited, care may involve a specialist team and discussion of relatives who may need genetic assessment.

Complete the prescribed bowel preparation and tell the team about medicines, bleeding problems, and previous reactions to sedation. Bring details of your family history if they are not already recorded. After the test, attend the results appointment even if you feel well. Ask how many polyps were seen, whether any were removed, and whether the examination was complete. FAP monitoring is ongoing, so keep the next surveillance date in your calendar.

Seek urgent advice after colonoscopy for severe abdominal pain, a swollen abdomen, persistent vomiting, fever, heavy bleeding, marked dizziness, or difficulty breathing. Follow your unit’s written instructions if symptoms are milder but do not settle. If a planned surveillance procedure is delayed, contact the inherited-cancer or gastroenterology team to agree the safest next step.

Ask whether all areas were examined, whether polyps were removed, when pathology will be ready, and what surveillance interval fits your findings. Ask whether genetic counselling, upper-gastrointestinal checks, or a colorectal surgical opinion is appropriate for your situation.