RECTAL- OR COLON-POLYP REMOVAL

General Information

DEFINITION--Removal of a polyp from the membrane lining inside the rectum or colon.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Membrane lining of the rectum and colon.

REASONS FOR SURGERY--Removal of a possible source of cancer or to relieve symptoms.

SURGICAL RISK INCREASES WITH

• Obesity.
• Smoking.
• Poor nutrition.
• Recent or chronic illness.
• Use of drugs such as: antihypertensives; muscle relaxants; tranquilizers; sleep inducers; insulin; sedatives; beta-adrenergic blockers; or cortisone.
• Use of mind-altering drugs, including: narcotics; psychedelics; hallucinogens; marijuana; sedatives; hypnotics; or cocaine.

What To Expect

WHO OPERATES--General surgeon; colon-rectal surgeon; gastroenterologist; family doctor.

WHERE PERFORMED--Hospital; outpatient surgical facility; doctor's office.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

• Before surgery: Blood and urine studies; x-rays of lower gastrointestinal tract; colonoscopy (See Glossary).
• After surgery: Blood studies; laboratory examination of removed tissue.

ANESTHESIA--Intravenous sedative and narcotic pain killer.

DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION

• Surgery is preceded by medicated enemas.
• A colonoscope or sigmoidoscope is inserted through the rectum into the sigmoid colon. The polyp is located and removed with a wire snare, ultrasound or a laser beam.
• Bleeding is controlled with electric current or pressure applied with gauze soaked in epinephrine (See Glossary).

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Excessive bleeding.
• Surgical-wound infection.
• Inadvertent injury to the colon.

AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY--0 to 1 day.

PROBABLE OUTCOME--Expect complete healing without complications. Allow about 12 days for recovery from surgery.

Postoperative Care

GENERAL MEASURES---Watch for signs of excessive bleeding, such as bloody or black, tarry stools.

† You may use non--prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, to relieve minor pain.

† To help recovery and aid your well--

being, resume daily activities, including work, as soon as you are able.

• Avoid vigorous exercise for 4 weeks after surgery. > Resume driving 3 days after returning home.

DIET--Clear liquid diet until the gastrointestinal tract functions again. Then eat a well--balanced diet to promote healing. Increase intake of dietary fiber and fluids to prevent constipation. Avoid coffee, tea, cocoa, cola drinks, alcoholic beverages and any food or spice that causes painful or irritating digestive symptoms.

Call Your Doctor If

Any of the following occurs:

• Increased pain, swelling, redness, drainage or bleeding in the surgical area.
• Signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general ill feeling and fever.
• Nausea, vomiting, constipation, abdominal swelling or pain.
• Bloody or black, tarry stools.
• New, unexplained symptoms. Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects.