The polyp removed during President Joe Biden’s first colonoscopy in office was identified as a “tubular adenoma” that requires no further action, according to the White House physician.
A memo released Wednesday evening said the polyp, sent to a lab for a histologic examination, is similar to one Biden had removed in 2008.
An adenoma is a “benign, slow-growing but potentially pre-cancerous lesion,” physician Kevin O’Connor said in his statement.
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Although O’Connor said no further action is required at the time, his memo notes routine surveillance is recommended as well as a repeat colonoscopy in 7-10 years.
The White House released an earlier memo penned by O’Connor on Friday declaring Biden “fit for duty” following the completion of his annual physical earlier in the day. Biden weighed in at 184 pounds, and his height came in at 5 feet, 11.65 inches. His vital signs proved fairly virile for a 78-year-old. Biden had a blood pressure of 120/70.
O’Connor, who has been Biden’s primary care physician for 13 years, said Biden was examined for his gait and frequent throat clearing, which the doctor said he had noticed worsen as Biden got older.
Biden’s gait was determined to be degenerative “wear and tear” of his spine.
The president has a history of orthopedic and sports-related injuries that contributed to the wear on his spine but, according to a team of consulting physicians, was not enough to warrant any specific treatment. Biden’s neurological exam further revealed “mild peripheral neuropathy in both feet,” and while “he did not demonstrate any motor weakness,” a “subtle difference in heat/cold sensation and great toe proprioception could be elicited.”
The throat clearing was attributed to gastroesophageal reflux.
During his colonoscopy Friday, Biden was under general anesthesia and was temporarily unable to perform his duties as the president for roughly 85 minutes. During this time, Vice President Kamala Harris served as acting president, making her the first woman to hold presidential powers in U.S. history.
