Colon Polyp Removal is a procedure that involves the removal of an abnormal tissue growth from the membrane lining of the rectum or colon.
How is the Colon Polyp Removal surgical procedure performed?
A Colon Polyp Removal procedure may be performed under sedation.
- After making the individual lie on his/her side with their knees drawn towards the abdomen, the surgeon inserts a scope (tube fitted with camera) into the anus and rectum to visualize the large intestine
- The small polyps are then removed (polypectomy) by using a snare made of wire and electric current
- The larger polyps may be removed using laparoscopic surgery. Small incisions are made in the abdomen to introduce a tube fitted with a camera and surgical instruments to perform the procedure
Why is the Colon Polyp Removal surgical procedure performed?
The Colon Polyp Removal procedure is performed for the following reasons:
- Removal of the suspected cancerous tumor
- Removal of abnormal tissue, which is then sent to a pathologist for examination
- Repairing abnormal rectal bleeding
What tests are needed before the Colon Polyp Removal surgical procedure?
Before Colon Polyp Removal procedure, the patient has to undergo certain tests such as:
What are the possible Risks and Complications during the Colon Polyp Removal surgical procedure?
There are general factors that increase the risk of getting complications during surgery and they include:
- Obesity: Generally, the greater the degree of obesity, the greater the surgical risk
- Smoking: The longer the smoking history (in pack-years smoked), the greater the surgical risk
- Advancing age
- Poorly controlled diabetes, as evidenced by a high hemoglobin A1c and a high fasting glucose
- Poorly functioning kidney, as evidenced by increased BUN (blood urea nitrogen) and blood creatinine
- Poorly functioning liver, as evidenced by increased blood liver function tests
- Hypertension (increased blood pressure), especially if it is poorly controlled
- Poor nutritional status (malnutrition with mineral and vitamin deficiencies)
- Poor lung function, as evidenced by abnormal lung function tests
- History of bleeding disorders
- Longstanding illness, such as autoimmune disorders and chronic infections
- Weak immune system due to a variety of causes
Various possible risks or complications that may arise during the Colon Polyp Removal surgery are:
- Excessive bleeding
- Infection of the surgical wound
- Anesthetic complications