What is a Colonoscopy / Polypectomy ?
A colonoscopy is a look at the inside of your rectum and colon (large bowel). A soft tube (colonoscope) is used. The colonscope is passed through the rectum and around inside the colon. Samples of the lining of your colon (biopsies) can be taken, without discomfort, throught the colonoscope. These biopsies are sent to the lab for testing. It takes about two weeks for your doctor to get the reports from the lab. Polyps are small growths of tissue inside the colon. A polypectomy is the removal of a polyp. This is done by passing a wire loop (snare) through the colonoscope and cutting the polyp off by tightening the wire around the base of the polyp. The base of the polyp is cauterized to prevent bleeding. This usually causes no pain. Polyps are usually removed because they can be the source of rectal bleeding or may contain cancer. The majority of polyps are benign (non cancerous) but may develop cancer if left in the colon. Removal of polyps is an important method of prevention and cure
