Colonoscopy?

Question

A relative of mine recently had a colonoscopy and the doctor removed one polyp during the procedure. The doctor is going to test the polyp to see if it is cancerous. My question is, if the polyp is cancerous what does that mean for his future, will he have to take chemotherapy or take medication?

Answer 1

I just went through the same thing - my polyps were benign, but because of the number of them (7) and their size - I have to go for another colonoscopy in 3 years vs the usual 5. Anytime they remove something from you they need to send it to pathology for testing. Did he have issues before the test or was it a preventative measure? If he didn't have issues before, most likely the polyp will be benign. Instead of worrying about cancer now - wait for the results to come back and cross that bridge then. They've made great strides iwth treating colon cancer. I'm sure his doctor will treat him accordingly.

Answer 2

It's not likely to be cancerous, but if it is, there are many treatment options, including radiation, chemotherapy and various surgeries. In an extreme case, a colostomy is a possibility...which simply means that a shortened bowel is routed out through the client's side. An opening called a 'stoma' is formed, which is fitted with a port and a bag of some sort to collect feces. This can then be emptied at the client's discretion and need. Each case is different and the treatment is tailored to the individual. After colostomy and a period of healing, it is possible to restructure the colon to almost normal use. Things have improved so much in the past five years that it's a whole new world. Catching colon cancer early is the key to survival.

Answer 3

Most likely it won't be cancer. The doctor would discuss treatment for him depending on what type of cancer and how far along it is. Hard to be specific.