Colon cancer is one of the most common and deadly cancers, but it is also highly preventable through regular screening and removal of precancerous growths called polyps. A colon polypectomy, a procedure offered at PSRI Hospital Delhi, is a procedure to remove these polyps from the colon before they can potentially develop into cancer.
What are Colon Polyps?
Polyps are abnormal growths that protrude from the inner lining of the colon or rectum. While most polyps are benign, some types have the potential to become cancerous over time if they are not removed. Adenomatous polyps, which develop from glandular cells lining the colon, are the polyps most likely to progress into colon cancer.
Why is Polypectomy Recommended?
By removing adenomatous polyps and other precancerous growths, a polypectomy essentially prevents colon cancer from developing. Studies have shown that removing precancerous polyps can reduce a person's risk of developing colon cancer by up to 90%.
The Polypectomy Procedure
A colon polypectomy is usually performed during a routine colonoscopy screening exam. During the procedure, the gastroenterologist inserts a long, flexible tube with a small camera on the end (a colonoscope) into the rectum and guides it through the colon. When polyps are identified, the doctor uses a wire loop or specialized tools to remove them.
Most polyps can be removed completely during a colonoscopy, though larger polyps may require an additional procedure. The polyps are then sent to a lab to be analyzed to determine if they are precancerous or cancerous.
Recovery and Follow-Up
Polypectomy is an outpatient procedure, so patients can go home the same day. There may be some temporary gas cramps and bleeding, but complications are rare. If precancerous polyps are removed, the doctor will recommend more frequent follow-up screening exams to monitor for additional polyp growth.
Preventing Colon Cancer
Colon polypectomy is a safe, highly effective way to prevent colon cancer by removing precancerous polyps before they can progress. When combined with other preventive measures like a healthy diet and regular exercise, polypectomy can greatly reduce a person's lifetime risk of developing colon cancer.
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