Fiberoptic colonoscopy: the fate of colonoscopic polypectomy sites

Nine cases of colonoscopic polypectomy followed by colonic resection are reviewed. A properly performed colonoscopic polypectomy produces a mucosal defect resembling a superficial ulceration. Granulation tissue rapidly covers the area, and this, in turn, is eventually covered by normal colonic mucosal epithelium. Mural inflammation is mild and limited to the submucosa, and no demonstrable change occurs in the muscular layers.