What is a polyp?
Image "colon polyp on a short stalk" used with permission by Stephen Holland, M.D., Naperville Gastroenterology, Naperville, IL, USA (2007)
​https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Polyp-2.jpeg
A polyp is a growth of tissue on the inside lining of the rectum or colon. Polyps that grow on a stalk, similar to what a mushroom looks like, are called pedunculated polyps. On the other hand, flat polyps, referred to as sessile polyps, may be more difficult to detect in the presence of a suboptimal prep. It is important to follow the colon cleansing instructions meticulously. The purpose of the exam is to detect polyps and prevent cancer. Therefore, a good "clean out" is imperative.