Easing Your Worries Through Polyp Removal

Many of us may not know that polyps are actually quite common. It is estimated for example that at least 30% of older adults have polyps. A lot of experts say though that most polyps are benign and harmless. Nonetheless, there are times when polyps still have to be removed. In the case of colorectal polyps, they could develop into cancerous masses. Nasal polyps could interfere with breathing and cause headaches. Endometrial polyps could cause irregular menstrual cycles and can even hinder pregnancy. Here are some polyp removal methods.

Colorectal Polyps

Polyps in the colon that are originally benign might eventually become malignant. This is why they should be removed and checked if they could cause cancer. In most cases, polyps in the colon are removed through the use of a colonoscope and a snare or hot wire. This is considered a minor procedure.

The colon is first cleaned after which a special telescope known as the colonoscope is inserted. The polyp is then snared or encircled by a loop which cuts the polyp from the stalk. The resulting cut is closed by an electric current. Experts say the complications are very rare. Possible rare complications may include puncturing the colon and excessive bleeding.

Not all polyps may be removed through snaring. If this is the case, surgical methods may have to be used. A colon polyp may be removed through incisions on the wall of the abdomen. Even when a colon polyp is successfully removed, there is no absolute guarantee that no other colon polyps will develop.

Endometrial/ Uterine Polyps

A doctor may suspect uterine polyps if a woman suffers from spotting or heavy or irregular menstrual flows. Uterine polyps are diagnosed through a hysteroscope, a sonohysterogram or through a hysterosalpingogram. Once a polyp is found, the usual procedure to use would be dilation and curettage. In this procedure, the cervix is dilated and instruments for polyp removal are inserted.

In past decades, polyps were simply scraped out blindly. Today polyp removal tools may now include a hysteroscope together with a scraping device used on the uterine wall to remove polyps. The hysteroscope often provides more accurate removal. Polyps may return in the future even after curettage. In some cases, the polyps may be deemed dangerous in which case the entire uterus may have to be removed through a procedure called hysterectomy.

Nasal Polyps

Your doctor may first attempt to treat these polyps by prescribing oral or spray type corticosteroids. These medications may effectively shrink the polyp that is causing blockage and discomfort. In some cases, patients may have to be treated for other conditions that may have a hand in causing polyp formation such as allergies and infections.

In some cases, nasal polyps may have to be removed through surgical methods. A polyp may be suctioned or cut out. Polyps may also be removed through small incisions.

It is important to constantly have yourself checked regardless of wherever your polyp is located. Future polyp growth in the uterus and the colon in particular could lead to cancer.