Bipolar snare polypectomy--a safer technique for electrocoagulation of large polyp stalks.

Conventional colonoscopic snare polypectomy for large polyps with stalk diameter of 1.5 cm or more carries a significant risk of haemorrhage after transection, probably due to "leak currents". The use of a return-electrode applied to the base of the polyp after snaring instead of the conventional patient-plate permits bi-polar polypectomy which is both safer and more efficient.