Polypectomy

Also known as: polyp removal.

What is polypectomy?

Polyps are growths of tissue that sometimes occur within the colon. A polypectomy is non-invasive surgical procedure that is used to remove a polyp from the colon.

What happens during the procedure?

The patient is placed under anesthetic, and then a colonoscope which is a tube with a light and camera attached to it, is inserted into the rectum to perform a colonoscopy and look for signs of problems within the colon.

Biopsies can be taken with the colonoscope and many problems can be treated with the colonoscope if found. If a polyp is identified, it can be removed with small surgical instruments attached to the colonoscope at the same time as the colonoscopy procedure. In the case of more severe polyps, a more invasive bowel surgery may be required.

Is any special preparation needed?

The patient will need to avoid food, drink and certain medications before the procedure. The patient may also require laxatives or an enema to completely clear the bowel of waste prior to the procedure.

What are the risk factors?

Pain, bleeding, bloating, fever, chills, vomiting, irregular heartbeat or damage to surrounding organs and tissue are potential risks of polypectomy.


Reviewed by: Carrie Firestone Baum, MD

This page was last updated on: April 29, 2021 02:35 PM

Pediatric Gastroenterology

The Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital is dedicated to the treatment of a wide variety of gastrointestinal problems in infants, children and adolescents with a multidisciplinary approach.

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