Colon Polyps

Overview

Colon polyps are growths (small clumps of cells) that form on the inside lining of the upper part of your large intestine (colon). Most colon polyps are harmless, but some can become cancerous.

Colon polyps found in the early stages usually can be removed safely and completely. Regular screening for colon polyps helps prevent colon cancer, which is often fatal when it's found in later stages. Uncommon inherited polyp disorders carry a higher risk of cancer.

Why choose Mayo Clinic

• Experience. Each year, Mayo Clinic doctors treat thousands of people for colon polyps and perform more than 35,000 colonoscopies, the primary test for colon polyps. Mayo specialists have treated thousands of people with rare polyp disorders that often are associated with hereditary colorectal cancer.
• Advanced techniques. Mayo Clinic specialists use the latest imaging tools to find colon polyps and determine if they are cancerous. Mayo digestive disease specialists (gastroenterologists) and colorectal surgeons are committed to using minimally invasive procedures to treat even very large polyps and early cancers.
• Efficient care. At Mayo Clinic colon polyps are usually removed when they are found or later that day sparing you an extra trip to the doctor and another round of bowel preparation.
• Research. Mayo Clinic researchers are investigating new ways to find and remove colon polyps. You have access to the expertise of Mayo's clinician-researchers.

Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., ranks No. 1 for digestive disorders in the U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals rankings. Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Ariz., and in Jacksonville, Fla., are ranked among the Best Hospitals for digestive disorders by U.S. News & World Report.

Read more about colon polyps at MayoClinic.com.