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What are polyps?

Polyps are small growths of the inner lining of the colon or rectum (bowel). They can be either just a little bulge on the surface of the bowel (called a sessile polyp) or a bulge on a stalk (called a pedunculated polyp). They are common and affect 15–20% of the adult population. The vast majority of polyps are benign (not cancerous) but some polyps have the potential to become a malignancy (cancer). Fortunately, the process of change to become a cancer usually takes many years, and most polyps never become malignant. Nevertheless, because of their potential to become cancerous, polyps must be removed. In this way, it is hoped to prevent the development of bowel cancer.

 

 

 

What are the symptoms of polyps?

Most polyps produce no symptoms at all because of their small size. Larger polyps can cause bleeding, a mucous discharge, an alteration in bowel function and/or abdominal pain.

 

 

 

How are polyps diagnosed?

Polyps are often found incidentally (by chance) when investigating the bowel for other reasons. They can be detected by barium enema X-ray or by direct examination of the lining of the colon and rectum with special instruments (eg a sigmoidoscope or colonoscope, which look at the sigmoid colon and colon, respectively).

 

 

 

How are polyps removed?

Almost all polyps can be removed using a flexible instrument called a colonoscope, which can be passed into the colon through the anus. The polyp can be cauterised or snared with a wire using an electric current, which does not hurt. The polyp is then sent for laboratory analysis to determine what type it is. Larger polyps occasionally need more than one treatment for complete removal, and a few polyps require a more-involved operation. The removal of polyps with the colonoscope does carry a tiny risk of perforation or bleeding, but this is a smaller risk than associated with not removing the polyp.

 

 

 

What will happen after I have my polyp(s) removed?

If your polyp is of a particular size or type, you might be at risk of developing further polyps in the future. Therefore, you might be asked to have repeat examinations at intervals of usually 3–5 years; we will enter you into a surveillance programme to ensure that we or you don't forget. The aim of this surveillance is to prevent cancer, and it is usually very effective. Nevertheless, no cancer prevention programme can be 100% effective, and so if you have symptoms (such as bleeding or change in bowel function) that concern you between these examinations, you should contact your general practitioner (GP) first. Your GP can refer you back to the Clinic if required.

 

 

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