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  • Sponsored Q&A

    What is a polyp and why do I need to have the colonoscopy again ?

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    I have had a colonoscopy a year ago. I was told that I had some “polyp” removed and that I should have a repeat colonoscopy.

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  • Dr Shekhar Sharma

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    As a general surgeon with 20+ years of experience, I strongly believe in “ethical & quality care”. I offer services in all general surgical work … View Profile

    Polyps are small growths in the lining of the colon which happens due to cells growing in a disorderly pattern. Best analogy to explain polyp is to compare polyps to mushrooms. Quite like mushrooms, polyps are of many different types and sizes. They can be either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) and the pathology report will often differentiate between the two.

    Depending on the exact type of polyp that was removed for you, there is a risk that the polyp may recur (either at the same site or elsewhere in the colon) and hence the recommendation to repeat the colonoscopy.

    The exact time frame to repeat the colonoscopy will depend on a lot of factors. Please discuss with your GP or specialist who did the colonoscopy regarding this.

    The advice provided here is generic and does not take your particular circumstances into account. Please seek independent advice for your situation.

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