Our Services / Colon Polypectomy

If your gastroenterologist finds polyps on the inner lining of your colon, you may need a colon polypectomy. At Carolina Digestive Health Associates, PA, the leading gastroenterology specialists perform a colon polypectomy at their endoscopy centers. During this minimally invasive procedure, your gastroenterologist removes the colon polyp. To find out more about colon polypectomy, call one of the 13 locations throughout Charlotte, Belmont, Concord, Davidson, Matthews, Monroe, Huntersville, University, and Pineville, North Carolina, or schedule an appointment online today. Telehealth consultations are available.

What is a colon polyp?

A colon polyp is a benign growth that develops on the inner lining of your colon. Polyps can grow anywhere along the gastrointestinal tract, but they’re most often found in the colon.

Colon polyps vary in size, appearance, and number. Though most polyps are benign, some colon polyps contain cancer. 

It’s estimated that about 40% of people aged 50 and older have precancerous colon polyps. 

Why would I need a colon polypectomy?

A colon polypectomy is the surgical removal of colon polyps. 

Whether benign or malignant, you may need a colon polypectomy if you have colon polyps. Colon cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer death in the United States. Adults should start colon cancer screening at age 45.

The screening helps find colon polyps before they turn cancerous. Removing them lowers your risk of developing colon cancer. 

Carolina Digestive Health Associates, PA, performs a colonoscopy to screen for colon cancer. They may also perform this procedure to find the underlying cause of your abdominal pain or bloody bowel movements. 

If your gastroenterologist discovers colon polyps during your colonoscopy, they recommend a colon polypectomy.

What happens during a colon polypectomy?

Your doctors at Carolina Digestive Health Associates, PA, review the details of your colon polypectomy at your consultation. They use a colonoscope, which is a small, lighted camera inside a soft flexible tube, to find and remove your polyps. 

Your doctor administers a sedative and pain medication before they start the procedure. Then, they insert the colonoscope into your rectum and slowly advance it through your large intestine. 

The colonoscope sends a live-action video of your colon to a computer monitor, and your gastroenterologist uses these images to find and remove the polyps. They use either a surgical laser or wire snare to remove the growth.

The entire procedure takes about 30 minutes.

What can I expect after a colon polypectomy?

After your colon polypectomy, your gastroenterologist moves you to recovery and prepares you for home. You must arrange to have someone drive you home after the procedure.

You may have some cramping, bloating, and gas after the procedure. Most patients fully recover from their colon polypectomy within a day.

To discuss the colon polypectomy with the experts at Carolina Digestive Health Associates, PA, call the office nearest you, or schedule an appointment online today.