Sunday 30 September 2012

routine colonoscopy screenings billing rule

 TRICARE Policy Update - Routine Screening Colonoscopy

Recently, TRICARE changed their policy for routine colonoscopy screenings.


Unlike a diagnostic colonoscopy, a routine colonoscopy performed for colorectal cancer screening in the absence of cancer or other presenting signs is a limited benefit under TRICARE. For services received on or after March 15, 2006, the TRICARE Policy Manual (found online at www.tricare.osd.mil) now defines coverage as follows:

Saturday 29 September 2012

Tricare billing update

 TRICARE Policy Update - Provider Information for Colonoscopy Referrals, Costs and Billing

To help differentiate a diagnostic colonoscopy from a routine colonoscopy screening it is important to include a diagnosis code related to the patient’s specific clinical condition. Referrals and claims submitted with only a “V.xx” diagnosis code, such as V76.50 or v76.51 may be considered as routine colonoscopy screening only.

Friday 28 September 2012

Multiple endoscopy performed on the same day - Billing update from BCBS

 BCBS Florida applying new rule for multiple endoscopy performed on the same day.


Effective September 1, 2010, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida, Inc. (BCB Inc. will begin applying new payment rules for certain multiple endoscopy procedure performed for the same patient, on the same day, during the same session. These new payment rules attempt to more appropriately and precisely value the secondary procedures based upon the additional resources required to perform them. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has applied similar procedure logic for several years.

BCBSF has identified 31 endoscopic groups which will be subject to these new payment rules. Each grouping of related endoscopic procedures shares the same “base code.” A base code is a procedure whose allowance is included in the allowance for the other related endoscopic procedure codes within that particular grouping. As of September 1, 2010, for endoscopy procedures identified within the same  grouping, BCBSF will determine the allowance for the secondary procedures as the allowance of the secondary procedures and the allowance for base code. The primary procedure (which will be the highest valued procedure based upon the CMS relative value units) will continue to be paid at 100 percent of the contracted allowed amount less the applicable member responsibility amount. The following example is offered for further explanation:

Thursday 27 September 2012

Frequency for Sequential or Periodic Diagnostic EGD(s)


Frequency for Sequential or Periodic Diagnostic EGD(s)
  • Follow-up of selected esophageal, gastric or stomach ulcers to demonstrate healing (frequency of follow-up EGD is variable, but every two to four months until healing is demonstrated is reasonable).
  • Follow-up in patients with prior adenomatous gastric polyps (approximate frequency of follow-up EGDs would be every one to four years depending on the clinical circumstances, with occasional patients with sessile polyps initially requiring surveillance every six months).
  • Follow-up for adequacy of prior sclerotherapy and/or band ligation of esophageal varices (approximate frequency of follow-up EGDs is variable depending on the state of the patient, but every 6 to 24 months is reasonable after the initial sclerotherapy and/or band ligation sessions are completed).

Wednesday 12 September 2012

Diagnosis 530.1X esophagitis billing update


Diagnoses That Support Medical Necessity


One of the following E codes may be used as a secondary diagnosis when ICD-9-CM diagnosis code

530.1X (esophagitis) is used as the primary diagnosis.

E862.0?     E862.4  
Accidental poisoning by petroleum products

Endoscopy and upper GI cpt code


CPT/HCPCS Codes

Note:
Providers are reminded to refer to the long descriptors of the CPT codesin their CPT book. The American Medical Association (AMA) and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) require the use of short CPT descriptors in policies published on the Web.
43200©
Esophagus endoscopy
43201©
Esoph scope w/submucous inj
43202©
Esophagus endoscopy, biopsy
43204©
Esoph scope w/sclerosis inj
43205©
Esophagus endoscopy/ligation
43215©
Esophagus endoscopy
43216©
Esophagus endoscopy/lesion
43217©
Esophagus endoscopy
43219©
Esophagus endoscopy
43220©
Esoph endoscopy, dilation
43226©
Esoph endoscopy, dilation
43227©
Esoph endoscopy, repair
43228©
Esoph endoscopy, ablation
43231©
Esoph endoscopy w/us exam
43232©
Esoph endoscopy w/us fn bx
43234©
Upper gi endoscopy, exam
43235©
Uppr gi endoscopy, diagnosis
43236©
Uppr gi scope w/submuc inj
43237©
Endoscopic us exam, esoph
43238©
Uppr gi endoscopy w/us fn bx
43239©
Upper gi endoscopy, biopsy
43240©
Esoph endoscope w/drain cyst
43241©
Upper gi endoscopy with tube
43242©
Uppr gi endoscopy w/us fn bx
43243©
Upper gi endoscopy & inject
43244©
Upper gi endoscopy/ligation
43245©
Operative upper gi endoscopy
43246©
Place gastrostomy tube
43247©
Operative upper gi endoscopy
43248©
Uppr gi endoscopy/guide wire
43249©
Esoph endoscopy, dilation
43250©
Upper gi endoscopy/tumor
43251©
Operative upper gi endoscopy
43255©
Operative upper gi endoscopy
43256©
Uppr gi endoscopy w/ stent
43258©
Operative upper gi endoscopy
43259©
Endoscopic ultrasound exam
43260©
Endo cholangiopancreatograph
76975©
Gi endoscopic ultrasound

Tuesday 11 September 2012

PT codes - Sigmoidoscopy Colonoscopy Service Codes


Colon Cancer Screening - Provider Billing Guidelines and Documentation


Fecal Occult Blood Test Service Codes

Code            Description
82270     Blood, occult, by peroxidase activity (eg, guaiac), qualitative; feces, consecutive collected specimens with single determination, for colorectal neoplasm screening (ie, patient was provided 3 cards or single triple card for consecutive collection)

Covered Diagnosis - Colon Cancer Screening preventive service


PREVENTIVE SERVICES PAYMENT POLICIES


Colon Cancer Screening

Requirements

HMO/POS
 Referrals are required from Primary Care Physician to a Contracting Provider.·
 Services subject to benefit limitations.·
PPO/PBA
 Services are subject to benefit limitations.·

Limitations and Exclusions

Colonoscopy Billing - CPT 45380 , 45385


Colonoscopy Billing tips - cpt 45380 & 45385


As a speaker at many national conferences, I find the question most frequently asked is, “What is the proper way to code a screening colonoscopy?” First, let’s talk about what is a screening colonoscopy. Physicians suggest a colorectal cancer screening (colonoscopy) typically when a healthy patient turns age 50. The procedure entails a colonoscope inserted in the anus moved through the colon past the splenic flexure in order to visualize the lumen of the rectum and the colon. It is used to provide an early diagnosis of colorectal cancer, diverticulosis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, etc. The diagnosis code for the screening is selected from the V code section V76.51 (Special screening for malignant neoplasms, colon). The CPT code would be 45378 (Colonoscopy, flexible, proximal to splenic flexure, diagnostic).

What is Virtual colonoscopy


 What is Virtual colonoscopy (VC)?


Introduction
Virtual colonoscopy (VC) uses x-rays and computers to produce two- and three-dimensional images of the colon (large intestine) from the lowest part, the rectum, all the way to the lower end of the small intestine and display them on a screen. The procedure is used to diagnose colon and bowel disease, including polyps, diverticulosis, and cancer. VC can be performed with computed tomography (CT), sometimes called a CAT scan, or with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). 

VC Procedure

While preparations for VC vary, you will usually be asked to take laxatives or other oral agents at home the day before the procedure to clear stool from your colon. You may also be asked to use a suppository to cleanse your rectum of any remaining fecal matter.

VC takes place in the radiology department of a hospital or medical center. The examination takes about 10 minutes and does not require sedatives. During the procedure,
* The doctor will ask you to lie on your back on a table.
* A thin tube will be inserted into your rectum, and air will be pumped through the tube to inflate the colon for better viewing.
* The table moves through the scanner to produce a series of two-dimensional cross-sections along the length of the colon. A computer program puts these images together to create a three-dimensional picture that can be viewed on the video screen.
* You will be asked to hold your breath during the scan to avoid distortion on the images.
* The scanning procedure is then repeated with you lying on your stomach.
After the examination, the information from the scanner must be processed to create the computer picture or image of your colon. A radiologist evaluates the results to identify any abnormalities.
You may resume normal activity after the procedure, although your doctor may ask you to wait while the test results are analyzed. If abnormalities are found and you need conventional colonoscopy, it may be performed the same day.


Conventional Colonoscopy
In a conventional colonoscopy, the doctor inserts a colonoscope--a long, flexible, lighted tube--into the patient's rectum and slowly guides it up through the colon. Pain medication and a mild sedative help the patient stay relaxed and comfortable during the 30- to 60-minute procedure. A tiny camera in the scope transmits an image of the lining of the colon, so the doctor can examine it on a video monitor. If an abnormality is detected, the doctor can remove it or take tissue samples using tiny instruments passed through the scope. 

Monday 10 September 2012

Complication and after EGD what happen


 Are there any complications on EGD?



EGD is safe and associated with low risk when performed by physicians who have been specially trained and are experienced in the endoscopic procedure.

One major complication is perforation in which a small tear through the wall may allow leakage of digestive fluid. This complication may be managed simply by aspirating the fluid until the opening seals or may require surgery.

EGD - How to prepare


EGD



Esophagogastroduodenoscopy, or EGD, (also known as upper GI endoscopy), is the examination of the upper digestive tract.  This minimally invasive procedure is used to diagnose unexplained anemia, persistent dyspepsia (patients over 40 years old), dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), heartburn and chronic acid reflex, odynophagia (painful swallowing), and upper gastrointestinal bleeding.  An EGD enables your doctor to examine your upper digestive tract for abnormalities using an endoscope.



PREP PROCESS


Do not eat food for at least 4 to 6 hours before the procedure.  Notify your doctor if you have a history of bleeding disorders or if you are taking any anticoagulant (blood-thinning) medications, aspirin, or other medications that affect blood clotting.  You may need to stop these medications before the procedure.


PROCEDURE

The test lasts 5 to 20 minutes.  The patient may receive moderate sedation or topical anesthesia on their oropharynx (part of the pharynx that reaches from the uvula to the hyoid bone).  The patient lies on their left side on the exam table with their head bent forward during the procedure.  A mouth-guard is placed between the teeth to prevent the patient from biting on the endoscope.  If you wear dentures you will be asked to remove them prior to the procedure.  The endoscope is passed over the tongue and into the oropharynx.  The endoscope is guided to the stomach and examines the first and second parts of the duodenum (small intestine).

SIDE EFFECTS AND RISKS

The main risks are infection, bleeding and perforation.  The risk is increased when a biopsy or other intervention is performed.  Patients who are allergic to or sensitive to medications, contrast dyes, iodine, shellfish, or latex should notify their physician.   If you are pregnant or suspect that you are pregnant, you should notify your physician.  Notify your doctor of all medications (prescribed and over-the-counter) and herbal supplements that you are taking. 

necessity of EGD


Why is EGD necessary?



Many problems of the upper digestive tract can-not be diagnosed by X-ray, EGD may be helpful for the diagnosis of inflammation of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum (esophagitis, gastritis, duodentis) and to identify the site of upper gastrointestinal bleeding.

EGD is more accurate than X-ray in detecting gastric (stomach) and duodenal ulcers, especially when there is bleeding or scarring from a previous ulcer.

Sunday 9 September 2012

During the procedure EGD


What should I expect during the procedures? 


Your doctor will give you a medication through a vein to make you relaxed and sleepy, and the back of your throat may be sprayed with local anesthetic. While you are in a comfortable position, the panendoscope is inserted through the mouth and each part of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum is examined.

The procedure is extremely well tolerated with little or no discomfort. Many patients even fall asleep during EGD.

The tube will not interfere with your breathing. Gagging is usually prevented by the medication. 

What is Panendoscopy


EsophagoGastroDuodenoscopy


What is an EGD (Panendoscopy)?

A panendoscope is a long, flexible tube that is thinner than most food you swallow. It is passed through the mouth and back of the throat into the upper digestive tract and allows the physician to examine the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (the first portion of the small intestine).

What is an esophagogastroduodenoscopy? How treatement is given and involvement of risk


Esophagogastroduodenoscopy - Overview (EGD, Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, Upper GI Endoscopy, Gastroscopy, Esophagoscopy)


What is an esophagogastroduodenoscopy?

Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is a diagnostic procedure that allows the physician to diagnose and treat problems in the upper gastrointestinal (UGI) tract. The physician uses a long, flexible, lighted tube called an endoscope. The endoscope is guided through the patient's mouth and throat, then through the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (first part of the small intestine). The physician can examine the inside of these organs and detect abnormalities.

Saturday 8 September 2012

Esophagogastroduodenoscopy - Overview (EGD, Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, Upper GI Endoscopy, Gastroscopy, Esophagoscopy)

During the Procedure

 An EGD may be performed on an outpatient basis or as part of your stay in a hospital. Procedures may vary, depending on your condition and your physician´s practices.

What is Clear Liquid Diet for Endoscopy


Clear Liquid Diet for Endoscopy


A "clear liquid" means that you can see through it. It should not be dark colored (e.g. cola) and it should not have pulp (e.g. orange or grapefruit juice or any juice that is described as "with pulp" or with "bits of fruit").

You may not have any drinks that are red, blue, or purple. Solid food, milk and milk products are NOT allowed.

What is Upper GI Endoscopy


Upper GI Endoscopy (EGD)

What is Upper GI Endoscopy

The term "endoscopy" refers to a special technique for looking inside a part of the body. "Upper GI" is the portion of the gastrointestinal tract, the digestive system, that includes the esophagus, stomach, duodenum and the beginning of the small intestine. The esophagus carries food from the mouth for digestion in the stomach and duodenum.

Friday 7 September 2012

How Do I Prepare for the Procedure Upper GI Endoscopy ?


Regardless of the reason upper GI endoscopy has been recommended for you, there are important steps you can take to prepare for and participate in the procedure. First, be sure to give your doctor a complete list of all the medicines you are taking and any allergies you have to drugs or other substances.

Complication and after Upper GI Endoscopy


What are the Possible Complications from an Upper GI Endoscopy?

Years of experience have proved that upper GI endoscopy is a safe procedure. Typically, it takes only 15-20 minutes to perform. Complications rarely occur. These include perforation, a puncture of the esophageal wall, which could require surgical repair, and bleeding, which could require transfusion. Again, these complications are unlikely. Be sure to discuss any specific concerns you may have with your doctor.
When your endoscopy is completed you'll be cared for in a recovery area until most of the effects of the medication have worn off. Your doctor will inform you about the results of the procedure and provide any additional information you need to know.

Types of colon - Ascending,Transverse and Descending colon


Types of COLON:


The location of the parts of the colon are either in the abdominal cavity or behind it in the retroperitoneum. The colon in those areas is fixed in location.

Arterial supply to the colon comes from branches of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) and inferior mesenteric artery (IMA). Flow between these two systems communicates via a "marginal artery" that runs parallel to the colon for its entire length. Historically, it has been believed that the arc of Riolan, or the meandering mesenteric artery (of Moskowitz), is a variable vessel connecting the proximal SMA to the proximal IMA that can be extremely important if either vessel is occluded. However, recent studies conducted with improved imaging technology have questioned the actual existence of this vessel, with some experts calling for the abolition of the terms from future medical literature

Thursday 6 September 2012

Biopsy type list


Types of Biopsy


Needle biopsy—cells are removed using a thin needle
Aspiration biopsy—cells are drawn out with a hollow needle that uses suction
Core needle biopsy—a sample of tissue is removed using a hollow  needle that has a special cutting edge
Vacuum-assisted biopsy—a number of samples of tissue are taken using a special rotating probe device
Endoscopic biopsy—abnormality is viewed with a long, thin tube that has a lighted camera on one end (called an endoscope); a tool is passed through the tube to take the biopsy sample
Incisional biopsy—a portion of a mass is removed by cutting it out
Excisional biopsy—a mass is completely removed (eg, breast lump)
Punch biopsy—a core of skin is removed with a special biopsy tool
Skin biopsy—a small piece of skin is cut off with a scalpel
Shave biopsy—top layers of skin are shaved off with a special blade
Bone marrow biopsy—a long needle is inserted into the bone marrow to collect cells 

Does insurance pay for scrrening test of colorectal cancer.


What are screening tests, and why are they so important? 

 
Screening tests are examinations that check for health problems before they cause symptoms. Screening tests are important because finding health problems at an early stage often means that treatment will be more successful.
Colorectal cancer screening tests are used to detect cancer, polyps that may eventually become cancerous, or other abnormal conditions. 

screening test for colorectal cancer


What tests are used to screen people for colorectal cancer? 

 
People who have any risk factors for colorectal cancer should ask their doctor when to begin screening for colorectal cancer, what tests to have, and how often to schedule appointments. Doctors may suggest one or more of the tests listed below as a part of regular checkups. 

Symptoms of colorectal cancer


Does colorectal cancer cause symptoms? 


Common symptoms of colorectal cancer include the following:
  • Change in bowel habits
  • Diarrhea, constipation, or feeling that the bowel does not empty completely
  • Blood in the stool (either bright red or very dark in color)
  • Stools that are narrower than usual
  • General abdominal discomfort (frequent gas pains, bloating, fullness, and/or cramps)
  • Weight loss with no known reason
  • Constant tiredness
  • Vomiting
These symptoms can be caused by cancer or by a number of other conditions. It is important to check with a doctor. 

Wednesday 5 September 2012

Complications of Upper Endoscopy


What are the Possible Complications of Upper Endoscopy?


Endoscopy is generally safe.  Complications can occur, but are rare when the test is performed by physicians with specialized training and experience in this procedure.  Bleeding may occur from a biopsy site or where a polyp was removed.  It is usually minimal and rarely requires blood transfusions or surgery.  Localized irritation of the vein where medication was injected may rarely cause a tender lump lasting for several weeks, but this will go away eventually.  Applying heat packs or hot moist towels may help relieve discomfort.  Major complications, e.g., perforation (a tear that might require surgery for repair) are very uncommon. 

After Upper Endoscopy


What happens After Upper Endoscopy?


After the test, you will be monitored in the endoscopy area until most of the effects of the medication have worn off.  Your throat may be a little sore for a while, and you may feel bloated right after the procedure because of the air introduced into your stomach during the test.  You will be able to resume your diet after you leave the procedure area unless you are instructed otherwise.

In most circumstances, your doctor can inform you of your test results on the day of the procedure; however, the results of biopsies or cytology samples taken will take several days. 

What is happening for patient when upper endoscopy


What can be expected during the Upper Endoscopy?


Your doctor will review with you why upper endoscopy is being performed, whether any alternative tests are available and possible complications from the procedure.  Practices may vary among doctors, but you may have your throat sprayed with a local anesthetic before the test begins and may be given medication through a vein to help you relax during the test.  While you are in a comfortable position on your side, the endoscope is passed through the mouth and then in turn through the esophagus, stomach and duodenum.  The endoscope does not interfere with your breathing during the test.  Most patients consider the test to be only slightly uncomfortable and many patients fall asleep during the procedure. 

Tuesday 4 September 2012

How is colorectal cancer diagnosed?


To find the cause of symptoms, the doctor evaluates one's personal and family medical history. The doctor also performs a physical exam and may order one or more diagnostic tests. These may include a blood test called a CEA assay to measure a protein called carcinoembryonic antigen that is sometimes higher in patients with colorectal cancer. The doctor may also order x-rays of the gastrointestinal tract , sigmoidoscopy , or colonoscopy. If abnormal tissue is found during these tests, a biopsy (the removal of tissue for examination under a microscope by a pathologist) is performed to determine if a person has cancer.

Advantages and Disadvantages of VC


Advantages of VC

VC is more comfortable than conventional colonoscopy for some people because it does not use a colonoscope. As a result, no sedation is needed, and you can return to your usual activities or go home after the procedure without the aid of another person. VC provides clearer, more detailed images than a conventional x-ray using a barium enema, sometimes called a lower gastrointestinal (GI) series. It also takes less time than either a conventional colonoscopy or a lower GI series.

Disadvantages of VC
The doctor cannot take tissue samples or remove polyps during VC, so a conventional colonoscopy must be performed if abnormalities are found. Also, VC does not show as much detail as a conventional colonoscopy, so polyps smaller than 10 millimeters in diameter may not show up on the images.

what is EGD


ESOPHAGOGASTRODUODENOSCOPY (EGD)


EGD is a procedure that enables your physician to examine the lining of the upper part of your gastrointestinal tract, which is the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum using a thin flexible tube with its own lens and light source.

What is an Upper Endoscopy?

Upper Endoscopy (also known as an upper GI endoscopy, esophagogastroduodenoscopy [EGD], or panendoscopy) is a procedure that enables your physician to examine the lining of the upper part of your gastrointestinal tract, i.e., the esophagus (swallowing tube), stomach, and duodenum (first portion of the small intestine) using a thin flexible tube with its own lens and light source. 

Monday 3 September 2012

Treatment of colorectal cancer


How is colorectal cancer treated?


Treatment for colorectal cancer depends on a number of factors, including the general health of the patient and the size, location, and extent of the tumor. Many different treatments and combinations of treatments are used to treat colorectal cancer. 

Surgery to remove the cancer is the most common treatment for colorectal cancer. The type of surgery that a doctor performs depends mainly on where the cancer is found. 

Upper Endoscopy


Why is Upper Endoscopy Done?


Upper endoscopy is usually performed to evaluate symptoms of persistent upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing.  It is also the best test for finding the cause of bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract.

Upper endoscopy is more accurate than x-ray films for detecting inflammation, ulcers, or tumors of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum.  Upper endoscopy can detect early cancer and can distinguish between benign and malignant (cancerous) conditions when biopsies (small tissue samples) of suspicious areas are obtained.  Biopsies are taken for many reasons and do not necessarily mean that cancer is suspected.  A cytology test (introduction of a small brush) to collect cells may also be performed.

How to prepare for Endoscopy


What Preparation is Required for Endoscopy?


For the best (and safest) examination, the stomach must be completely empty.  You should have nothing to eat or drink, including water after midnight the night before your procedure.  Your doctor will be more specific about the time to begin fasting, depending on the time of day that your test is scheduled.

It is best to inform your doctor of your current medications as well as any allergies several days prior to the examination.  You should alert your doctor if your require antibiotics prior to undergoing dental procedures, since you may need antibiotics prior to upper endoscopy as well.

Sunday 2 September 2012

Understand - what is pathology


What is Pathology?


Pathology is an incredibly varied field of science which focuses on the study of diseases. Careers in this field are extremely broad, with a number of different training programs available for people who are interested in pathology. A pathologist may work for an organization like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tracking outbreaks of diseases and observing their consequences, for example, or a pathologist might work in the lab of a hospital, analyzing samples of blood, tissue, and body waste for signs of disease.

As a medical field, pathology is one of the oldest medical disciplines. The history of pathology dates back to the Golden Age of Islamic culture, when doctors began to apply the scientific method to their patient interactions. Physicians started making links between the causes and results of diseases, for example, and they began to use scientific information to diagnose their patients. One of the oldest tricks in pathology is tasting a patient's urine to test for diabetes; if the urine is sweet, the patient has diabetes mellitus, a common form of this pernicious disease.

Different type of biopsy procedure


What are the different types of biopsy procedures? 

Excisional Biopsy

A whole organ or a whole lump is removed (excised). These are less common now, since the development of fine needle aspiration (see below). Some types of tumors (such as lymphoma, a cancer of the lymphocyte blood cells) have to be examined whole to allow an accurate diagnosis, so enlarged lymph nodes are good candidates for excisional biopsies. Some surgeons prefer excisional biopsies of most breast lumps to ensure the greatest diagnostic accuracy. Some organs, such as the spleen, are dangerous to cut into without removing the whole organ, so excisional biopsies are preferred for these.

Polyps and early finding ?


Polyps of the Colon and Rectum



A Polyp (POL-ip) is any mass of abnormal tissue that bulges or projects outward or upward from a surface of the colon or rectum by growing from a broad base (sessile) or slender stalk (pedunculus). The early detection and removal of polyps prevent colon and rectal cancer. 

Saturday 1 September 2012

Symptoms of polyps and how danger it is.


Are polyps dangerous? 

 
Most polyps are not dangerous. Most are benign, which means they are not cancer. But over time, some types of polyps can turn into cancer. Usually, polyps that are smaller than a pea aren't harmful. But larger polyps could someday become cancer or may already be cancer. To be safe, doctors remove all polyps and test them. 



Who should get tested for polyps?

How does the doctor test for polyps?The doctor can use four tests to check for polyps:· Digital rectal exam. The doctor wears gloves and checks your rectum, the last part of the large intestine, to see if it feels normal. This test would find polyps only in the rectum, so the doctor may need to do one of the other tests listed below to find polyps higher up in the intestine.· Barium enema. The doctor puts a liquid called barium into your rectum before taking x rays of your large intestine. Barium makes your intestine look white in the pictures. Polyps are dark, so they're easy to see.· Sigmoidoscopy. With this test, the doctor can see inside your large intestine. The doctor puts a thin flexible tube into your rectum. The device is called a sigmoidoscope, and it has a light and a tiny video camera in it. The doctor uses the sigmoidoscope to look at the last third of your large intestine.· Colonoscopy. This test is like sigmoidoscopy, but the doctor looks at all of the large intestine. It usually requires sedation.

Teatment for polyps

How are polyps treated? The doctor will remove the polyp. Sometimes, the doctor takes it out during sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy. Or the doctor may decide to operate through the abdomen. The polyp is then tested for cancer.If you've had polyps, the doctor may want you to get tested regularly in the future.

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