Colon Polyp Removal Surgery - How To Recover After It?

Colon polyp removal, also known as colon polypectomy, refers to the removal of abnormally grown tissues from the mucous membrane or the inside lining of the large intestine or colon. Since there are some particular types of polyps that tend to develop into cancer, early removal of polyps through surgery is essential, once diagnosed. Like every surgery, colon polyp removal has its own set of post-op guidelines to aid recovery and avoid risks and complications.

The procedure of polyp removal surgery is non-invasive and is typically carried out at the same time when performing colonoscopy or examination of the large intestines. However, there are a few recovery tips that can be helpful in ensuring fast recovery after polypectomy.

Let's have a look at them here.

1. No strenuous activities: Patients are strongly advised to refrain from driving for at least 24 hours following a colon polyp removal surgery and avoid any strenuous activities for a minimum of four weeks following the surgery. There can be minor side-effects such as bloating, cramps and passages which resolves within a day. Patients are suggested to resume their regular daily activities slowly as otherwise, it may delay the full recovery.
2. Opt for a healthy diet: The diet instructions may vary from one patient to another, depending on their overall physical health and other medical conditions. However, all patients are strongly recommended to not consume certain foods, such as coffee, soda, tea, spicy and processed foods, alcohol, etc. So, the bottom line is, any food items that may irritate the digestive system must be avoided for a few weeks.
3. Go for regular check-ups: Until a patient fully recovers from colon polypectomy, it is advised to opt for regular checkups for a healthy recovery. In case any discolouration of urine is noticed after the first bowel movements, the patient needs to contact his/her gastroenterologist right away. Completing the entire prescribed medicine course and following the do's and don'ts, suggested by the doctor, is a must.
4. Be careful with medications: To quickly recover from colon polyp removal surgery, patients are strongly suggested to avoid the intake of any non-prescription medications such as aspirin. However, patients may consider taking stool softeners to prevent constipation and antibiotic medications for preventing infections but only after consulting with the doctors.

One needs to be aware of the fact that depending on the acceptance of and response of the patient's body to a colon polyp removal surgery and of course their physical health, the recovery time may vary. However, the more careful a patient is in following the post-surgery recovery tips, the quicker he or she may resume the daily activities. Usually, in the majority of cases, it takes around two to three weeks to recover from a colon polyp removal surgery completely.