If a polyp is found during a colonoscopy (or sigmoidoscopy) it can often be easily removed. This is done by using special fine instruments which are passed down side channels of the colonoscope. When the polyp is removed it is then looked at under the microscope.

• Most polyps do not contain cancer cells. However, removing the polyp prevents the risk that it may become cancerous sometime in the future.
• Some polyps contain cancer cells. If these cells are confined to within the polyp then the removal of the polyp is curative. If the cells look as if they had begun to spread to the wall of colon or rectum then an operation may be needed to remove that section of colon or rectum.

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• Next: Treatment options for colorectal cancer

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