Had polyp removed during colonoscopy. How long until I find out if its cancer?

Question

Had the procedure on Wed. and my Dr. removed a polyp. She sent it to be biopsied... How long does that take and when will I know if it is cancerous? I have an appt. to see my Dr. Monday, but if it turns out to be cancer, would I know sooner than Monday? I wasn't real worried until today... But now I am getting more and more worried, especially since I've had some very severe epi-gastric attacks lately, and we're trying to figure out why I'm sick all the time. Anyone have experience with this??

Answer 1

Relax, it the polyp was malignant appearing, the gastroenterologist would have already told you so. They always do biopsies and always check everything out while they are in there. It does not mean you have cancer.
Also, less than 1% of colon polyps removed are pre cancer.
I work in a hospital and we do hundreds of colonoscopy's a year. I imagine 85% of them show a polyp or more, and of course, less than 1% show any pre cancerous lesions.
Dont worry. Your fine.

Answer 2

My mom had colon cancer. When she was diagnosed it was only a few days (I believe) from when the polyp was removed until the results came back. Don't expect a call this weekend because labs aren't open on the weekend. Try to relax (I know, good joke!) and remember that while cancer is serious, if you do have cancer, it sounds like the docs caught it early and you would only need a minor surgery. My mother had many polyps removed before she had cancer and she has polyps removed every colonoscopy since she's had cancer. This spring, we are celebrating 10 years of her being cancer free. (I just had to write that because we are excited!) BTW, have the docs tested you for stomach ulcers or problems with your gallbladder or pancreas? If not, have them test that as well. Note if the "attacks" come after eating certain foods or certain types of foods, that may be a factor too. Good luck and God bless!

Answer 3

Relax and enjoy your weekend. You will find out no sooner than Monday. Create a thought in your head that "it's just a polyp". You can help create your own reality believe it or not. Whatever the answer on Monday, start eating your veggies and fruit, if you don't have a weight problem. Stay away from processed foods with preservatives. These cause more harm than good.

Answer 4

It usually means that you have cancer. It doesn't really tell you how bad the Cancerr is. It really depends on the type of cance it is, on how it is treated. Don't freak out. Some people only have to have radiation, some Chemo and radiation, some sugary and radiation. some all three. Generally most colon cancer can be cured. If they say that you have cancer you must look at this as if you are now going to have to fight. I had breast cancer in 2005. I had to have both radiation and Chemo. I really expected to be a lot worst than it was. They have all sorts of new medicine that help you through this. I work all the way through all my treatment. Good luck and God Bless

Answer 5

I have had polyps removed three times in the past six years, thirty eight polyps in all. Being in UK, nobody thought to tell me I might be at risk of cancer. Its only now reading your question that I've found out. Just as well I think, as I'd only be worrying like you. Good luck.

Answer 6

I'm a radiographer and the most accurate answer I can give you is you shouldn't be overly worried as its only been two days. Normally we get lab results after five days, unless its an urgent case which your doctor didn't think yours was, which is a good sign. Chin up and try not to worry about something you don't yet need to worry about, most polyps are Benin

Answer 7

I'm thinking that your doctor should have the lab results on Monday. Not colon cancer, but my wife had thyroid cancer. She had many, many doctor appointments after the initial diagnosis.

Good luck.

Answer 8

My dad just had one and it took 5 days to get the results...