Dr Kenneth Koo

Polyp Removal Specialist In Singapore With 20 Years Experience

  • Polyp removal is a procedure performed to remove polyps in the gastrointestinal tract.
  • It is the most effective way to prevent and detect colorectal cancer and stomach cancer early.

Dr Kenneth Koo has extensive experience in treating gastrointestinal conditions in adults, with extensive training in polyp removal.

What Is Polyp Removal?

Polyp removal or polypectomy is a minimally invasive procedure to remove a polyp ( an abnormal growth of tissue which develops from the inner lining of the intestinal tract ). Most polyps that form in the colon or stomach are generally non-cancerous. However, some of these polyps have the potential to grow and mutate over time to become cancer.

Polyp removal is necessary to confirm the type of polyp and to ensure it is benign.

Polyp removal is typically carried out during a colonoscopy or gastroscopy. Occassionally, very large polyps may require surgery for removal.

Why & When Is Polyp Removal Necessary?

Although most colon and stomach polyps are typically benign (non-cancerous) and do not pose any significant danger, some may become malignant (cancerous) over time. Polyp removal is necessary to determine if the growths are benign, precancerous or cancerous.

Polyp removal is recommended if:

  • Polyps or abnormal growths are detected during a colonoscopy or endoscopy
  • Polyps, especially those that are larger than normal, are causing symptoms such as abdominal pain, bowel irregularities and rectal bleeding
About our Gastroenterologist

Dr Kenneth Koo

Senior Consultant Gastroenterologist

Gleneagles Medical Centre

  • MBBS
  • M Med (Int Med)
  • MRCP (UK)
  • FRCP (Edin)

Dr Kenneth Koo is an experienced gastroenterologist with more than 20 years’ experience and is well trained in managing all types of digestive and liver conditions.

Prior to joining private practise, Dr Kenneth Koo was Director of Gastroenterology and Senior consultant at Ng Teng Fong General Hospital. An integral member of the team which transitioned from Alexander Hospital to Ng Teng Fong General Hospital in 2015, he was responsible for overseeing all aspects of the gastroenterology division including the growth, development and governance.

Dedication to his patients and clinical practise can be seen from several service quality awards obtained over the years.

Polyp Removal Procedure: Before, During & After

How to Prepare for Polyp Removal?

Polyps are removed during gastroscopy or colonoscopy, Hence preparation follows that of these 2 procedures ie adequate fasting for gastroscopy and bowel cleansing for colonoscopy.

It is important to inform your doctor of your regular medications especially blood thinners. Your doctor will advise you if blood thinners need to be stopped prior to procedure.

What Happens During the Procedure?

You will first be sedated to reduce discomfort during the procedure. During the endoscopic examination of the stomach or colon, if polyps are detected, suitable ones can be removed immediately during the endoscopy.

There are several ways to remove a polyp, depending on the type and size of the growth.

  • Very small polyps can be removed using biopsy forceps
  • Larger polyps can be removed using a snare or thin wire loop
  • Very large polyps that cannot be removed safely during endoscopy may require surgical methods.

What to Expect Afterwards?

Once the polyps are removed, they will be sent to a laboratory for biopsy testing to determine what type of polyps they are and if they are cancerous. The results typically take about a few days to come back. Depending on the results, further treatment may be required, particularly if the growths turn out to be cancerous.

After the polyp removal procedure, you are strongly encouraged to have someone accompany you home and avoid driving, especially if you were given a sedative. Minor side effects such as mild stomach cramps, gassiness and bloating may also be experienced, which will usually resolve within 24 hours.

Make An Enquiry

Dr Koo strives to provide accurate diagnosis & effective treatments for each patient. Our team will guide you through the treatment & recovery process, ensuring you get the highest level of care & service.

Why Do Patients Choose
The GI & Liver Center

  • Previous Director of Gastroenterology & Senior consultant at Ng Teng Fong General Hospital
  • More Than 20 Years’ Experience
  • Accurate Diagnosis Through Comprehensive Screening Tools
  • Accepting Patients With & Without Insurance
  • Transparent & Honest Charges

Make An Enquiry

Dr Koo is committed to personalised patient care.
Contact us to learn more about our treatments and our fees.

Possible Risks & Complications

Polyp removal is a relatively safe procedure with low risks of complications. However, as with any other medical procedure, there is still a possibility of complications such as bleeding or perforation of the intestinal tract. Bleeding may occur even up to 1-2 weeks after the procedure. Perforation often requires surgery for repair.

Billing & Insurance

Partnered Programs & Insurance Plans

We accept a range of policies that covers individual health insurance as well as corporate insurance plans. We have partnered with many insurance companies such as Aviva, IHP, Great Eastern, and more!

Our Clinic

Feel free to drop by at our clinic at 6 Napier Road #06-16, Gleneagles Medical Center, Singapore 258499

Enquire With Us

We are here to help. Fill in the form below to send us your enquiry or schedule an appointment.
Please Note: Adult patients ONLY.

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    Visit Our Clinic

    The GI & Liver Center

    6 Napier Road #06-16
    Gleneagles Medical Center
    Singapore 258499

    enquiries@tglc.sg

    Mon-Fri: 9am – 12.30pm and 2pm - 5pm
    Sat: 8.30am – 12.30pm
    Sun & PH: Closed

    Polyp removal and colonoscopy (or endoscopy) usually last for 30 minutes to about 2 hours, depending on the size of polyps. As polyp removal is an outpatient procedure, you will be allowed to return home the same day after the procedure.

    You should provide Dr Koo with the necessary medical information, such as any medications or supplements you are taking on a daily basis and any symptoms you may be facing.

    As polyp removal is generally minimally invasive, causing only mild discomfort, you should be fully recovered within 2 weeks or so.

    If a polyp is removed completely, it is rare for it to grow back again in the same location. However, the same factors that caused it to develop in the first place can cause polyp growth in another area.