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Colonoscopy help please

DavidS12
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I had a colonoscopy this week privately after bowel movement changes. They found a 40mm (which I'm told is big) polyp. They didn't remove it but took biopsy's and asked me to have CT scans on my chest, pelvis abdomen  and an MRI on my abdomen. Does this mean the consultant thinks I have cancer and wants to see how far it's spread? So worried now but as it's Friday night won't be able to speak to anyone and even if I did would they speculate. Anyone with any experience? Thank you in advance 

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    No - it means the consultant found a polyp and wants to get enough information to enable a diagnosis to be made.

    It also reflects that there are fewer financial constraints in the private sector than in the NHS. CT and MRI scans are  expensive so less likely to be used in the NHS before tests on the biopsies have come back to avoid unnecessary expense. That slows down diagnosis but is more cost-effective. 
     

    I hope this helps!

    Dave
     

     

  • Hello there and thanks for posting

    I am sorry to hear you are undergoing some tests and appreciate this must be a difficult time for you.

    Unfortunately no one can say what this polyp may be here or anywhere else until the results are in so try and hang in there for now.

    Polyps ( even large ones) won't always be cancer but samples ( biopsies) of them need to be examined closely under a microscope to be sure. If the doctor has some suspicions they may arrange some more scans but even then it doesn't mean it is cancer or that if it is it has spread, so please don't over think things until you have all the facts from your doctor.

    I hope you know more soon but do get back if you have more questions or just want to talk. We also have the nurse helpline on 0808 800 4040 Mon-Fri 9-5.

    Wishing you all the best

    Naomi

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