Expert: John C. M.D. - 3/15/2001

Question
My mother just had her 2nd colonscopy-her first was three months ago. The doctor found two noncancerous polops, one large with "2 legs". He told her she had to come back so he could go in again and make sure he had gotten all of the large one. Now after the 2nd colonscopy he says he got more of it but he has to go back in 2 months and look again.  I am concerned about her going thru this so often. I am not sure I understand why he can't do it all in one "visit".  Can you help me understand this? Thanx. Laura D-C

Answer
This is not uncommon.  There are some very challenging polyps to remove endoscopically, especially if there is a sessile component to them, meaning that it lies flat along the wall of the colon.  If he can't get them out satisfactorilly with colonoscopy, surgery to remove the affected part of the colon would be an option.