Polypectomy

Additional information 

Occasionally polyps are found during the procedure. 

What Are Polyps? 

A polyp is a protrusion from the lining of the bowel, some polyps are pedunculated (look like a mushroom) and are attached to the intestinal wall by a stalk and some are flat polyps which attach directly onto the intestinal wall without a stalk. Polyps when found are generally removed or sampled by the endoscopist as they may grow and cause problems.

Polypectomy 

A polyp may be removed in one of two ways both using an electric current (diathermy). 

For large polyps a snare (wire loop) is placed around the polyp, a high frequency current is then applied and the polyp is removed. 

Flat polyps (without any stalk) can be removed by a procedure called EMR (Endoscopic Mucosal Resection). This involves injecting the lining of the bowel that surrounds the flat polyp. This raises the area and allows the wire loop snare to capture the polyp. 

For smaller polyps biopsy forceps (cupped forceps) are used. These hold the polyp whilst diathermy is applied, therefore destroying the polyp.

After the procedures

You will be allowed to rest for as long as is necessary. Your blood pressure and heart rate will be recorded and if you are diabetic, your blood glucose will be monitored. Should you have underlying difficulties or if your oxygen levels were low during the procedure, we will continue to monitor your breathing and can administer additional oxygen. Once you have recovered from the initial effects of any sedation (which normally takes 30 minutes) you will be offered a snack and moved into a comfortable chair.

Before you leave the department, the nurse or doctor will explain the findings and any medication or further investigations required. She or he will also inform you if you require further appointments. 

Since sedation can make you forgetful it is a good idea to have a member of your family or friend with you when you are given this information although there will be a short written report given to you. 

If you have had sedation you may feel fully alert following the investigation, but however the drug remains in your blood system for about 24 hours and you can intermittently feel drowsy with lapses of memory. If you live alone, try and arrange for someone to stay with you, or if possible, arrange to stay with your family or a friend for at least 4 hours.

 If the person collecting you leaves the department, the nursing staff will telephone them when you are ready for discharge.