Colon Polyps: Why Are They Removed During Colonoscopy?

Being told that a colon polyp was found during your colonoscopy can naturally be worrying. Many patients immediately wonder whether it is cancer or whether surgery will be needed. Fortunately, most colon polyps are non-cancerous (benign), and in many cases, they can be safely removed during the same colonoscopy. Removing polyps is an important step in preventing colorectal cancer and protecting your long-term digestive health.

At Dr. Rami Hamed Center (DRHC) Dubai, our experienced gastroenterologists perform advanced colonoscopy procedures to detect and remove colon polyps using minimally invasive endoscopic techniques.

What Are Colon Polyps?

Colon polyps are abnormal growths that develop on the inner lining of the large intestine (colon) or rectum. They vary in size and shape, and while most are harmless, some types may gradually develop into colorectal cancer over several years if they are not removed.

Most people with colon polyps do not experience any symptoms, which is why routine colon cancer screening plays such an important role in early detection.

Why Are Colon Polyps Removed?

The main reason for removing colon polyps is to prevent colorectal cancer. Since doctors cannot always determine whether a polyp could become cancerous simply by looking at it, removing it allows the tissue to be examined under a microscope.

Polyp removal can:

• Prevent certain polyps from developing into colorectal cancer.
• Provide an accurate diagnosis through laboratory analysis.
• Reduce the need for future surgery.
• Lower your long-term risk of bowel cancer.

Can Polyps Be Removed During the Same Colonoscopy?

Yes. In most cases, colon polyps can be removed immediately during the same colonoscopy without requiring another procedure.

Depending on the size, number, and appearance of the polyps, your gastroenterologist may perform:

• Simple polypectomy for smaller polyps.
• Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR) for larger or more complex polyps.

Removing the polyp during the examination often saves patients from additional procedures and allows treatment to be completed in one visit.

Do Colon Polyps Cause Symptoms?

Many colon polyps cause no symptoms at all and are only discovered during routine screening. However, some patients may experience:

• Blood in the stool.
• Changes in bowel habits.
• Persistent constipation or diarrhea.
• Iron-deficiency anaemia.
• Abdominal discomfort in some cases.

These symptoms can also be caused by many other digestive conditions, making a proper evaluation essential.

Are All Colon Polyps Cancerous?

No. The majority of colon polyps are benign. However, certain types, particularly adenomatous polyps, have the potential to become cancerous over time. Because it is impossible to know with certainty without laboratory examination, doctors generally recommend removing polyps whenever it is safe to do so.

What Happens After a Polyp Is Removed?

After removal, the polyp is sent to a pathology laboratory for microscopic examination. The results help determine:

• The type of polyp.
• Whether any abnormal or precancerous cells are present.
• Whether further treatment is needed.
• When your next surveillance colonoscopy should be scheduled.

Most patients simply require routine follow-up based on the pathology findings.

Who Is More Likely to Develop Colon Polyps?

Your risk of developing colon polyps may be higher if you:

• Are over 45 years of age.
• Have a family history of colon polyps or colorectal cancer.
• Have previously had colon polyps removed.
• Have Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), including Ulcerative Colitis or Crohn's Disease.
• Have lifestyle risk factors such as obesity, smoking, or a low-fibre diet.

Advanced Colonoscopy and Polypectomy at DRHC Dubai

At Dr. Rami Hamed Center (DRHC) Dubai, our gastroenterology team uses advanced endoscopic techniques to detect and safely remove colon polyps during colonoscopy whenever appropriate. We also provide comprehensive digestive care, including gastroscopy, capsule endoscopy, endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), and other advanced diagnostic procedures.