Rectal polyp
Rectal polyps are growths on the wall of the rectum — most often benign, but some may develop into cancerous lesions over time, which is why their early detection and removal is one of the most important elements of colorectal cancer prevention. At Wyspa Medycyny Przyjaznej in Gdańsk we handle the diagnosis and treatment of polyps, and every removed polyp is sent for histopathological examination.
Registration: Mon.–Fri. 9:00–17:00. Gdańsk, ul. Toruńska 15. Price from 1200 PLN — call to confirm current prices.
| What they are | growths on the wall of the rectum |
| Symptoms | often none; sometimes bleeding, change in bowel habits |
| Diagnostics | rectoscopy, anoscopy, colonoscopy |
| Price | from 1200 PLN |
| After procedure | histopathological examination |
Dr. Godyńska, Dr. Szul, Dr. Smok, Dr. Rak
every removed polyp examined under microscope
endoscopic, laser, surgical — method matched to the lesion
private proctology clinic
Symptoms and risk factors
Rectal and colorectal polyps often produce no symptoms, especially when small. Sometimes rectal bleeding occurs, along with changes in bowel habits, pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen, or mucus in the stool. Risk factors for polyp formation include: genetic predisposition (including familial polyposis syndromes), chronic bowel inflammation, a low-fibre diet, smoking, obesity, and age over 50.
Diagnosis of rectal polyps
Diagnosis is aided by: a proctological consultation with digital rectal examination, anoscopy, rectoscopy, and — if needed — colonoscopy assessing the entire large bowel. Colonoscopy allows polyps to be detected in areas inaccessible to the rectoscope while simultaneously taking a biopsy or removing the lesion. Every removed polyp is sent for histopathological examination, which assesses the type of lesion and the risk of malignant transformation.
Polyp removal methods
The choice of method depends on the size, number, location, and initial endoscopic assessment of the polyp. Smaller lesions are usually removed endoscopically (polypectomy with a snare or clip) or by laser, minimising the risk of bleeding and shortening procedure time. Larger or endoscopically difficult polyps may require surgical excision. The method is selected by the doctor after evaluating the lesion.
Why should polyps be removed?
Removing polyps significantly reduces the risk of their potential development into cancerous lesions and is one of the most important elements of colorectal cancer prevention. However, removing a polyp does not mean new ones cannot form in the future — which is why after polypectomy a schedule of follow-up examinations is required, determined by the doctor based on the histopathological result and risk factors.
What to know — risks, follow-up, and warning symptoms
After polyp removal — especially of larger lesions — bleeding or (less commonly) perforation of the bowel wall may occur. The doctor assesses the risk and discusses post-procedure management.
The type of removed polyp (adenoma, hyperplastic polyp, serrated) and its microscopic features determine the timing of subsequent follow-up examinations. This is why histopathology is mandatory.
Removing a polyp does not prevent new ones from forming. The proctologist or gastroenterologist establishes a schedule of endoscopic follow-up examinations — typically after 1, 3, or 5 years, depending on the result.
Rectal bleeding, a change in bowel habits lasting more than 2–3 weeks, mucus in the stool, or unintended weight loss are symptoms that require medical assessment — not only with regard to polyps, but to rule out other colorectal diseases.
Specialists — Wyspa Medycyny Przyjaznej, Gdańsk
Proctologist and surgeon experienced in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of polyps and other anal and rectal conditions.
Proctologist and surgeon providing diagnosis and treatment of anal conditions, including polyps and hemorrhoids.
Surgeon specialising in proctology — procedures of the anus and rectum, including polyp removal.
Bleeding or concerning symptoms? Book a proctological consultation
Dr. Godyńska · Dr. Szul · Dr. Smok · Dr. Rak
Gdańsk, ul. Toruńska 15 · Mon.–Fri. 9:00–17:00
Frequently asked questions — rectal polyps
Are rectal polyps dangerous?
Most polyps are benign and do not require extensive treatment. However, some — particularly adenomas — may develop into cancerous lesions over time. This is why their early detection, removal, and histopathological assessment are important. The microscopic result determines the risk level and schedule of further follow-up.
Do polyps cause symptoms?
Polyps, especially small ones, often cause no symptoms at all and are discovered incidentally during routine examinations. Sometimes the following appear: rectal bleeding or blood on toilet paper, a change in stool frequency or consistency, pain in the lower abdomen, or mucus in the stool. Any of these symptoms is worth discussing with a doctor.
How are rectal polyps removed?
Smaller lesions are removed endoscopically (polypectomy — electric snare or clip) or by laser. Larger or difficult-to-access polyps may require surgical excision. The choice of method depends on the size, number, and location of the polyps and the doctor's assessment. Every removed polyp is sent for histopathological examination.
Is follow-up required after polyp removal?
Yes — and it is mandatory. Even after successful polyp removal, new ones may appear. The schedule of follow-up endoscopic examinations (usually after 1, 3, or 5 years) is set by the doctor based on the histopathological result and risk factors. Regular follow-up is crucial in patients with a family history or chronic bowel disease.
What does the polyp removal procedure involve?
The type of anaesthesia depends on the method — ranging from local for small lesions accessible on rectoscopy to general anaesthesia for larger surgical procedures. Endoscopic and laser procedures are usually outpatient. The doctor discusses the details, risks, and post-procedure instructions with the patient before the procedure.
Proctology — related services
Examination, symptom assessment, and qualification for polyp diagnosis or treatment.
Details →Diagnostic endoscopic examination of the anal canal and lower rectum.
Details →Microscopic assessment of the removed polyp — determines risk and follow-up plan.
Details →Rectal bleeding may have other causes too — proctological diagnostics distinguish between them.
Details →Rectal polyps — diagnosis and removal in Gdańsk
Dr. Godyńska · Dr. Szul · Dr. Smok · Dr. Rak
Gdańsk, ul. Toruńska 15 · Mon.–Fri. 9:00–17:00 · tel. 600 006 913
The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and does not replace medical consultation. Symptoms such as rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, or mucus in the stool require assessment by a proctologist — there may be many causes. Qualification for polyp diagnosis and treatment is carried out by a doctor following an examination. Wyspa Medycyny Przyjaznej, ul. Toruńska 15 lok. AU1, Gdańsk. Tel.: 600 006 913.