What is the purpose of using a snare during a polypectomy?

The purpose of using a snare during a polypectomy is to encircle and cut the base of a polyp for removal. The snare is a loop of wire or similar material that is deployed to grasp the polyp securely. Once the polyp is caught within the loop, energy—often in the form of electrical current—can be delivered through the snare to cut through the tissue at the base of the polyp. This method allows for a clean excision, facilitating complete removal of the polyp while minimizing damage to the surrounding tissue.

This technique is especially useful because it allows for the removal of polyps that might be too large or complex for other methods. By firmly grasping the polyp with the snare and applying cautery, the procedure simultaneously achieves both cutting and coagulation, which helps to reduce bleeding during and after the excision. Thus, the snare is a critical instrument in effectively performing a polypectomy.