Colon Polyps Treatment Options
It is important to find and completely remove colon polyps (polypectomy). If left in place, they will continue to grow, and over time a small percentage will become malignant. Many polyps are discovered during routine colonoscopy and can be removed at that time. But some polyps are too large or in an area that is difficult to reach. In these cases minimally invasive can be used to successfully and completely remove them.
Colon Cancer Treatment Options
Laparoscopic surgical techniques can be used to remove small colon cancers along with nearby lymph nodes. Laboratory examination of the cancerous polyp and the lymph node tissue by a Board Certified Pathologist will reveal whether cancer cells have spread (metastasized) to other places in the body. In the case of metastasis, other effective therapies are available through Mercy’s Institute for Cancer Care and its skilled and dedicated team of health professionals.
Minimally Invasive Surgery for Colon Conditions
Minimally invasive surgery is often the treatment of choice for complete removal of large benign polyps and early malignant polyps that do not respond to other treatment.
Advantages of minimally invasive surgery may include:
- Little or no scarring
- Less discomfort after surgery
- Same day surgery or shorter hospital stay
- Faster recovery time
Follow-up care is essential after treatment of colon polyps, colon cancer and diverticulitis. New polyps may form, but cause no symptoms in the beginning. Your doctor can recommend how often you should have physical checkups and colonoscopies.