Why Is a Polypectomy Performed?

Your doctor may recommend a polypectomy to:

• Remove precancerous polyps before they become cancerous

• Diagnose abnormal tissue through laboratory analysis

• Treat bleeding polyps

• Relieve symptoms caused by larger polyps

• Reduce the risk of colorectal cancer

• Manage polyps found during routine cancer screening

• Remove stomach or esophageal polyps that require further evaluation

Early detection and removal of polyps significantly reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer, making regular screening an essential part of preventive healthcare.

Conditions That May Require Polypectomy

A polypectomy may be recommended for patients with:

• Colon polyps

• Rectal polyps

• Gastric (stomach) polyps

• Esophageal polyps

• Duodenal polyps

• Adenomatous polyps

• Sessile serrated lesions

• Hyperplastic polyps requiring assessment

• Polyps identified during surveillance after previous polyp removal

• Polyps detected during colorectal cancer screening

Your gastroenterologist will determine whether removal is appropriate based on the size, appearance, location, and type of the polyp.

How Is a Polypectomy Performed?

The procedure is performed using an endoscope fitted with a high-definition camera and specialized instruments.

Colonoscopy Polypectomy

During a colonoscopy, the colonoscope is gently advanced through the rectum to examine the large intestine. When a polyp is identified, it may be removed using a snare, biopsy forceps, or other specialized devices depending on its size and shape.

Upper GI Polypectomy

Polyps located in the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum can be removed during an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (gastroscopy). Specialized accessories allow precise removal while minimizing injury to surrounding tissue.

Throughout the procedure, the endoscopist carefully inspects the surrounding mucosa to identify any additional abnormalities that may require treatment or biopsy.

Techniques Used During Polypectomy

Different techniques are used depending on the characteristics of the polyp.

Cold Forceps Polypectomy

Small polyps may be removed using biopsy forceps without electrocautery.

Cold Snare Polypectomy

A thin wire loop is used to remove small polyps without applying electrical current. This technique has become a preferred method for many small colorectal polyps.

Hot Snare Polypectomy

For larger polyps, an electrosurgical snare is used to cut through tissue while simultaneously controlling bleeding.

Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR)

Certain larger or flat lesions may require advanced endoscopic resection techniques such as EMR, allowing complete removal while avoiding surgery in many cases.

The most appropriate technique is selected by the endoscopist based on individual patient and polyp characteristics.

Benefits of Endoscopic Polypectomy

Endoscopic polypectomy offers numerous advantages over surgical removal in suitable patients.

• Minimally invasive treatment

• No external incisions

• Same-day procedure in most cases

• Short recovery period

• Accurate diagnosis through tissue analysis

• Reduced risk of colorectal cancer

• Less discomfort compared with surgery

• Faster return to normal daily activities

• Preservation of healthy bowel tissue

Preparing for a Polypectomy

Preparation depends on whether the procedure is performed during a gastroscopy or colonoscopy.

For colonoscopy, patients must complete a bowel preparation to ensure the colon is clean enough for careful examination and safe removal of polyps.

Patients should inform their doctor about:

• Blood-thinning medications

• Diabetes medications

• Heart conditions

• Implanted cardiac devices

• Allergies

• Pregnancy

• Previous reactions to sedation

You will receive detailed preparation instructions before your appointment.

Recovery After Polypectomy

Most patients recover quickly following endoscopic polypectomy.

Following the procedure, you will be monitored until the effects of sedation have worn off. Mild bloating, gas, or abdominal discomfort may occur temporarily due to air introduced during the examination.

Depending on the size and number of polyps removed, your doctor may recommend avoiding strenuous activity or certain medications for a short period.

If tissue samples have been sent for pathological examination, results are usually available within several days, and your doctor will discuss any further treatment or surveillance recommendations.

temporary symptoms as the effects of the procedure and sedation wear off 

1. Mild bloating is common.

2. Passing gas is expected.

3. A small amount of bleeding may occur.

4. Avoid driving for 24 hours after sedation.

5. Follow dietary instructions.

Recovery Tips After a Polypectomy

Following these simple tips can help promote healing after your procedure:

• Rest for the remainder of the day. Sedation can leave you feeling drowsy, so avoid strenuous activities until the following day or as advised by your doctor.

• Do not drive or operate machinery for 24 hours if you received sedation. Arrange for a responsible adult to accompany you home.

• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated unless your doctor has advised otherwise.

• Resume eating gradually. Start with light, easy-to-digest foods such as soup, porridge, toast, rice, bananas, or yogurt before returning to your normal diet.

• Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours after sedation, as it can increase drowsiness and interfere with your recovery.

• Avoid heavy lifting and vigorous exercise for at least 24–48 hours, or longer if your doctor recommends it.

• Take medications only as directed. If you normally take blood-thinning medications such as warfarin, apixaban, rivaroxaban, dabigatran, clopidogrel, or aspirin, follow your doctor's instructions about when to restart them.

• Expect mild bloating or cramping. Walking around and passing gas can help relieve discomfort caused by air introduced during the procedure.

• Monitor your bowel movements. A small amount of blood after the procedure may be normal, especially if a large polyp was removed, but persistent or heavy bleeding should be reported immediately.

• Attend your follow-up appointment. Your doctor will discuss the laboratory (histology) results of the removed polyp, explain whether it was benign or precancerous, and advise when your next colonoscopy should be scheduled.

Contact your doctor if heavy bleeding, severe abdominal pain, or fever develops.

Why Choose Endoscopy Center Nairobi for Your Polypectomy?

At Endoscopy Center Nairobi, we are committed to providing safe, high-quality, and patient-centered endoscopy services. Our team combines clinical expertise with modern technology to ensure every patient receives the highest standard of care.

Experienced Gastroenterologists

Our procedures are performed by skilled gastroenterologists with extensive experience in diagnosing and treating diseases of the digestive system, including the safe removal of gastrointestinal polyps.

Modern High-Definition Endoscopy Systems

We use advanced high-definition (HD) endoscopy equipment that provides exceptional image quality, allowing for accurate detection and precise removal of polyps while minimizing discomfort.

Safe and Sterile Environment

Your safety is our priority. Our endoscopes and accessories undergo rigorous cleaning, high-level disinfection, and quality assurance processes in accordance with internationally accepted infection prevention and control standards.

Personalized Patient Care

Every patient is unique. We take time to understand your symptoms, explain your procedure, answer your questions, and provide individualized care before, during, and after your polypectomy.

Comprehensive Endoscopy Services

From consultation and diagnostic endoscopy to therapeutic procedures such as polypectomy and biopsy, we provide comprehensive digestive healthcare under one roof.

Convenient Nairobi Location

Our centrally located facility offers easy access for patients from Nairobi and surrounding areas, with flexible appointment scheduling and a comfortable outpatient environment.

Commitment to Early Cancer Prevention

Removing precancerous polyps is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. We are dedicated to helping patients achieve better digestive health through early detection, timely treatment, and ongoing surveillance when needed.

Book a Polypectomy Consultation

If you have been diagnosed with gastrointestinal polyps, have symptoms that require endoscopic evaluation, or have been referred for therapeutic endoscopy, Endoscopy Center Nairobi is here to help.

Our experienced team provides safe, minimally invasive polypectomy services using advanced endoscopic equipment to support early diagnosis, effective treatment, and the prevention of gastrointestinal cancers.

Contact Endoscopy Center Nairobi today to schedule your consultation or request more information about our endoscopic polypectomy services.