A colonoscope is a long flexible tube that is about the thickness of a finger. Abnormalities suspected by x-ray can be confirmed and studied in detail. Abnormalities, which are too small to be seen on x-ray, may also be identified. Biopsies are taken for many reasons and do not necessarily mean that cancer is suspected. During the course of the examination, a polyp may be found.
Polyps are abnormal growths of tissue, which vary in size from a tiny dot to several inches.
If your doctor feels that removal of the polyp is indicated, he will pass a wire loop or snare through the colonoscope and sever the attachment of the polyp from the intestinal wall by means of an electrical current. If additional polyps are detected, they may be removed as well. You should feel no pain during removal of the polyp. Polyps are usually removed because they can cause rectal bleeding or contain cancer. Removal of colon polyps, therefore, is an important means of prevention and cure of colon cancer, which is a leading form of cancer in the United States.