**User Query:** I have a pedunculated polyp in the duodenal bulb that's just over 1 cm. My doctor mentioned removal, but I'm worried about risks like bleeding or perforation during the procedure. How safe is a gastroscopy or duodenoscopy for this? Also, if I don't remove it, could it grow bigger, cause blockage, or turn cancerous? Would I eventually need major surgery if I leave it?

Dr Kamran Mohammed

General Practitioner

• MBBS
• FIDM
• 5+ Yrs

Consult Now

A duodenal bulb polyp, especially if over 1 cm, is generally recommended for removal due to the increased risk of it becoming cancerous. While gastroscopy or duodenoscopy is generally safe, there are risks like bleeding and perforation, though the likelihood is low. If left untreated, the polyp could potentially grow larger, potentially obstructing the digestive tract, and there's a chance it could become cancerous. Major surgery is less likely, but may be needed if the polyp progresses or causes complications

Answered 3 days ago