Diplomate, American Board of Surgery
Diplomate, American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery
Fellow, American College of Surgeons
Fellow, American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons
Honorary Fellow, Philippine Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons
Honorary Member, Surgical Section Serbian Medical Association
Dr. Maher Abbas is an American Board Certified Colon and Rectal Surgeon who performs the latest and most advanced procedures to treat conditions affecting the small intestine, colon, rectum, and anus. He is a leader in minimally invasive and endoscopic surgery. With over 18,000 operations and procedures experience, he provides state of the art treatment to his patients.
Colonoscopy with polyp removal entails the elimination of abnormal growth inside the colon or rectal wall without the need for surgery [Figure 1]. A thin flexible tube (with a tiny video camera at the tip) is advanced through the anus to the area of the polyp which is removed with a biopsy forceps or a snare (a metal loop) [Figure 2]. The removed polyp is analyzed by a pathologist (a laboratory doctor using specialized microscopy techniques).
Figure 1 – Colon polyp
Figure 2 – Polyp removed with a snare (metal coil)
Polyps are abnormal growths of the lining surface of the colon and rectum. There are different types of polyps. In general, most polyps should be removed as they can grow into cancer. The risk for cancer depends on the size, shape, and type of polyp. Colonoscopy is the best way to remove most polyps. Very large polyps require specialized techniques by expert doctors. Such techniques offered by Dr. Maher Abbas include Colonoscopy with Tumor Resection or Laparoscopic Camera Keyhole Surgery.
The procedure is explained to you at length the day you meet Dr. Maher Abbas for the consultation. A cleansing bowel preparation is prescribed. The bowel preparation is done at home the day before the procedure.
The procedure is performed in the endoscopy suite. It can take up to 1 hour depending on the number and location of the polyps. It is performed with sedative medications. You do not feel or remember much of the procedure. Dr. Maher Abbas uses state of the art sedation equipment to ensure you have a pleasant experience [Figure 3]. All removed polyps are sent for evaluation in the laboratory.
A full report and images of the procedure are provided to you with recommendations for when to have your next colonoscopy. The procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis and you go home after the procedure. Normal activities are resumed the day after the procedure.
Figure 3 – Target controlled infusion [TCI] technology is used for optimal and safe sedation
Colonoscopy is a safe procedure and Dr. Maher Abbas has performed thousands of endoscopic procedures. Minor risks and side effects include transient dizziness or nausea related to the medications, abdominal bloating and gas. A complication such as bleeding or perforation, a small hole in the colon, is extremely rare. An additional endoscopic procedure or an operation may be needed.
If you would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Maher Abbas for colonoscopy with polyp removal, click here.
Kindly bring to your consultation all outside records of prior colonoscopy, pictures of polyps, and pathology reports.
