Question:
Do I need a follow up colonoscopy in 3 years if I had one small polyp on a previous colonoscopy that was not advanced?
Answer:
No
MedHead Confidence Score: 7
Amount Saved: $3,000 cost of colonoscopy
MedHead Message:
Be aware of the over-cautious gastroenterologist! Most polyps found on colonoscopy are very small and won’t lead to cancer. The minimum follow up for 1-2 small (less than 1cm) polyps that aren’t highly advanced, should be five years. $3,000 is a nice trip to Hawaii. I’d rather be in Hawaii than have a tube shoved up my back-end.
References:
1. http://www.choosingwisely.org/clinician-lists/american-college-surgeons-repeat-colonoscopy-for-small-polyps/ 2. http://health.costhelper.com/colonoscopy.html
