Colon Polyp Treatment in Los Angeles- Methods of Screening for the Presence of Polyps A polyp is a fleshy growth of cells that develops on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. These are largely asymptomatic (therefore producing no noticeable signs or symptoms), which means that the majority of patients are completely unaware of their presence. Screening is often the only way in which these polyps can be identified and treated. Why Do I need To Be Screened For Colon Polyps? As polyps will normally produce no symptoms, you will not be aware of their presence. Screening is the only way in which polyps can be found, therefore it is important for you to attend the screening process if you are invited to do so. Polyps are not considered …show more content…
If you are being sent for bowel screening to identify colon polyps, then it may be done using either x-rays to create an on-screen image, or by inserting a camera and viewing the inside of the colon. Whichever method is used, you will need to follow a restricted diet and use laxatives before the procedure to ensure that the colon and bowel are adequately cleansed. A flexible sigmoidoscopy looks at the last section of the colon, which is where over half of all polyps and tumors are found. A flexible tube is inserted, which allows the doctor to look at the inside lining of the colon. The procedure is done without sedation and can be uncomfortable, but is low risk and highly accurate for identifying polyps in this region of the bowel. If any polyps are found, you will need a colonoscopy procedure so that they can be removed. It is limited only to the last portion of the colon and rectum and therefore, polyps proximal to the reach of the scope can be …show more content…
It uses x-rays to create a computer image of the colon, without involving any kind of invasive procedure. The large intestine must be empty of stool, just like for the other procedures, but this will help to make colon screening safer and much quicker. It does not require sedation, but also does not allow tissue samples to be taken during the procedure. Though the x-rays used are highly sensitive, this method is currently not as reliable as a colonoscopy, as it is possible for polyps to be missed. If a lesion is identified, then a colonoscopy will be required. At this time, most insurance companies do not cover the cost of