What are they?

Polyps of the colon are small growths that originate from the inner surface of the colon wall and protrude into its lumen. They are quite common, found in 30% to 50% of the population. While they are not malignant tumours, there is a possibility for them to become malignant over time if left untreated.

What are the symptoms?

Colon polyps typically do not present any symptoms.

How will I know if I have them?

Gastroenterologists usually detect colon polyps during a screening for colorectal or rectal cancer. Pre-symptomatic screening aims to detect colorectal cancer early before symptoms develop. Pre-symptomatic screening for colon and rectal cancer includes:

  • Colonoscopy.Before the procedure, you will be given medication intravenously to help you relax or sleep. Then, the gastroenterologist - endoscopist will insert a thin, flexible tube into your rectum and advance it to the final segment of the colon called the cecum (lower right abdomen). The tube is equipped with a camera connected to a monitor to examine the inside of your colon. The tube also has a working channel through which tools pass, allowing the gastroenterologist to take biopsies or remove polyps (polypectomy). The polyps are then sent to a pathology laboratory to be examined for dysplasia or cancer.
  • Sigmoidoscopy.Sigmoidoscopy is similar to colonoscopy. The only difference is that sigmoidoscopy examines only the first part of the colon (the rectum and sigmoid colon), whereas colonoscopy examines the entire colon, and therefore colonoscopy is superior to sigmoidoscopy.
  • Imaging methods such as computed tomographic colonography, known as virtual colonoscopy, and barium enema. These are performed using X-rays, but they are inferior to colonoscopy because they cannot visualize microscopic polyps, and there is no possibility of taking biopsies or removing polyps (polypectomy) if found. In the latter case, a colonoscopy must be performed to remove the polyps, and therefore the patient undergoes the arduous process of bowel cleansing twice.
  • Meyer's stool test. This test is used to screen the general population for colorectal cancer. The test checks for the presence of blood in stool samples. Upon a positive result, colonoscopy is then performed to check for cancer. The test has low sensitivity and is not recommended for patients with symptoms or a family history of colorectal cancer. Colonoscopy remains the preferred examination.

How are polyps treated?

Polyps are removed during colonoscopy if they are small, or surgically if they are large. Removal of a polyp (or polypectomy) does not cause pain because the inner lining of the intestine (the mucosa) does not have sensory nerves to feel pain.

Can the recurrence of colon polyps be prevented?

To reduce the likelihood of recurrence of colon polyps, you can:

  • Follow a low-fat diet and high in fruits, vegetables, and dietary fibre.
  • Lose weight if you are overweight.
  • Quit smoking if you smoke.
  • Limit alcohol consumption.
  • Home Blood Collection

    For chronically ill or elderly patients, there are home blood collection services available.
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    • You may call us at 2385049200-208 to schedule an appointment with gastroenterologist .

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