Endoscopic resection of colonic polyps. A propos of 45 polypectomies

Endoscopic resection of polyps of the colon is, no doubt, a considerable therapeutic advance. It avoids surgical operation permits histological examination and makes simple biopsy unnecessary. It is indicated in the presence of pediculated polyps of a diameter or less than 3 cm, whatever the site of the polyp. Thus we were able to remove 45 polyps without complications. The method is not indicated in a large size polyp, sessile polyps or diffuse polyposis. The follow-up is still insufficient to assess : 1) the true risk of resection which can only be undertaken after long experience of colonoscopy ; 2) the frequency or recurrent adenomas. Endoscopic resection is at present the simplest method of detection and treatment of carcinoma in situ of the colon of which we observed four cases in our series. The problem of surgical reoperation is discussed.