What is a polypectomy?
A polypectomy is the removal of a polyp — a small growth on the inner lining of the bowel. It is usually performed as part of a colonoscopy: if your specialist finds a polyp while examining the bowel, they can remove it there and then, during the same procedure, without any additional appointment.
Removing polyps is one of the most valuable things a colonoscopy can achieve. It is quick, painless and does not add significantly to your recovery time. Any tissue removed is sent to a laboratory so it can be examined under a microscope.
What are polyps — and why removing them matters
Polyps are common, and most are harmless to begin with. However, the great majority of bowel cancers start as a polyp that has slowly changed over a number of years. By removing polyps early, your specialist interrupts that process well before any cancer can develop.
- Most bowel cancers begin as a polyp that grows and changes over time
- Removing a polyp removes that future risk entirely
- Polyps rarely cause symptoms, so they are usually found during screening
- Being found to have polyps may mean you need more regular colonoscopies
A referral is required
Polypectomy is performed during a colonoscopy, so you'll need a current referral from your GP before booking. This lets us tailor your care and ensures you can claim your Medicare rebate.
How it's done
Because a polypectomy is carried out during your colonoscopy, you'll already be resting comfortably under sedation and won't feel a thing. The bowel lining itself has no pain sensors, so removing a polyp is painless.
Depending on the size and shape of the polyp, your specialist will remove it using one of two simple techniques passed through the colonoscope:
- Snare — a fine wire loop is placed around the base of the polyp and used to gently remove it
- Forceps — small instruments used to lift away very small polyps
The whole step usually adds only a few minutes to the colonoscopy. Your specialist will explain what was found and removed before you leave.
Preparing for your procedure
Preparation for a polypectomy is exactly the same as the bowel preparation for a colonoscopy — the bowel must be completely empty so your specialist can see the lining clearly and remove any polyps safely. You'll be given detailed, easy-to-follow instructions when you book, but in general:
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A few days before
Switch to a low-fibre diet and stop certain medications if advised. It's especially important to tell us if you take blood thinners, as these may need to be adjusted before polyps can be removed.
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The day before
Begin the bowel preparation drink as instructed and stay on clear fluids. Keep sipping water to stay hydrated.
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The morning of
Finish the remaining preparation, then fast as directed. Arrange for someone to take you home afterwards.
The same preparation as a colonoscopy
The bowel must be fully clear for polyps to be found and removed safely. Follow the instructions exactly, download the full preparation guide below, and call us if anything is unclear.
After your procedure
Recovery after a polypectomy is much the same as after a colonoscopy. You'll rest in recovery until the sedation wears off, then a responsible adult can take you home.
- Minor spotting of blood can occur for a short time and usually settles on its own
- Follow your specialist's advice carefully about when to restart any blood thinners
- Removed tissue is sent to pathology to be examined under a microscope
- Histology results are usually available within about a week and are sent to your GP
- You must not drive, sign legal documents or drink alcohol for the rest of the day