CaRi-heart technology
Revolutionary new technology to assess the risk of a serious heart condition or heart attack – many years before anything happens.
Colon polyps
DUODENAL POLYPS
Polyps are small growths of tissue found in the colon (large intestine) and other organs
What are colon polyps?
Colon polyps or duodenal polyps are small growths of tissue found in the colon (large intestine). Colon polyps are usually harmless and often get better on their own. In other cases, they can develop into colon cancer, which can be fatal.
Need to know
Colon polyps don't often cause symptoms. If they do, these might include:
- tummy pain
- rectal bleeding
- change in faeces colour
- change in bowel habits
In other cases, colon polyps often show up during a colonoscopy or bowel examination. Colon polyps found early can be removed safely and completely. So it's important to have regular colon screenings.
Your consultant gastroenterologist will most likely recommend certain tests to find out if you have a colon polyp(s). These might include:
- Colonoscopy. A test to look inside your colon using a flexible tube with a camera on the end. If a polyp is found, it can be removed immediately.
- Virtual colonoscopy. A CT scan to view your colon. If a polyp is found, a colonoscopy can be carried out to remove it.
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy. A rectal test to look inside your colon using a sigmoidoscope.
If a polyp is found, it can be removed by passing a thin hooking instrument down the sigmoidoscope.
In most cases, if colon polyps are found, they can be removed during your diagnostic screening. In some cases, a sample of the polyp may be sent away to test it for cancer. Your consultant gastroenterologist will discuss the results of this test at a later date. If you require further treatment, your consultant will explain this to you.
Patient stories
Yvette's story: From back pain to hip replacement surgery
Yvette (54) a journalist from Kent, started experiencing pain in her hip seven years ago in 2015. An ex-national gymnast who had been incredibly active and flexible her whole life, Yvette felt concerned about the growing discomfort impacting her quality of life, and so sought help from her GP.
A new hip and straight back into the spin of things
David’s gym video shows him repeatedly pushing up to 100kg on a single leg press – not particularly unusual for this keen cyclist, former competitive squash player and all-round fitness enthusiast. What is unusual is that 52-year-old David had hip surgery just 12 weeks earlier.
Michael's MAKO hip surgery to treat his arthritis
73 year-old Michael, an avid walker and charity worker, was diagnosed with arthritis in January 2021. After facing long waiting times and increasing pain that was becoming more frequent, he started to look elsewhere for treatment.
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.