Retrieval of colorectal polyps following snare polypectomy: experience of the multiple-suction technique in 602 cases

Background Retrieving colorectal polyp after endoscopic snare polypectomy is time consuming and possibly incurs a failure. The aim of the study was to assess the effectiveness of the multiple-suction (M-S) technique for retrieving a variety of polyps. Materials and methods Four hundred and nine cases received endoscopic snare polypectomy from January 2003 to January 2007 were reviewed. The resected polyps were retrieved by M-S technique, in which suction regarded as the leading technique, was taken in combination with channel occlusion, trap, snare, and grasping forcep. Time of cecal intubation and of polypectomy, total examination time, shape, size, location, and number of polyp(s) were recorded. Retrieval time and polyp lost rate were also noted. Results A total of 602 polyps more than 3 mm in diameter underwent snare polypectomy. There were 96.7% (582/602) of polyps retrieved by the M-S technique. The mean retrieval time was 1.5 ± 0.6 min. Time of polypectomy, retrieval time, and total examination time were significantly positive correlative with the number of polyps ( P < 0.05). In a univariate analysis, longer retrieval time was significantly associated with larger polyps, more distant polyps from the anus, and a greater number of polyps, while higher polyp lost rate was significantly associated with sessile polyp, smaller polyps, and a greater number of polyps. In a multivariate analysis, retrieval time level (≤2.0 or >2.0 min) was linked to the number of polyps. Conclusions The M-S technique is proved to be reliable when used in the majority cases of colorectal polyp retrieval. In retrieving too many polyps, the M-S technique is time consuming, and hence, additional methods should be applied to improve its retrieval effectiveness.