Colon polyps are small growths that form on the lining of the colon. Most are harmless, but some can develop into a colon cancer over time.
Symptoms & Diagnosis
Most colon polyps have no symptoms, therefore screening for them is very important. The best way to evaluate for colon polyps is with a colonoscopy. There are also stool tests and imaging studies that can be done. The benefit to a colonoscopy is that most polyps that are found can be treated at the same time. If polyps are found, it is important that you keep all follow-up appointments. Your specialist will recommend a timeline for your next colonoscopy based on the number and type of polyps seen and/or removed.
Treatment Options
- Removal during initial colonoscopy
- If removed at the time of initial colonoscopy the polyp tissue will be sent for evaluation by pathology to ensure it is benign and completely removed.
- If unable to safely remove at the time of initial colonoscopy a biopsy (or piece of the polyp) will be sent off to pathology to assess whether it is cancerous.
- Removal during advanced colonoscopic intervention
- Sometimes a polyp is too large to be removed by standard colonoscopic techniques and will require removal by one of our physicians who specializes in advanced endoscopic removal techniques (EMR or ESD).
- Surgical intervention
- If a polyp is still too complex for advanced colonoscopy or has cancer cells seen by our pathologists, you may need surgery for removal of that section of the colon.
Living with the Condition
Some lifestyle changes have been found to be beneficial for the health of your colon. Several members of your Digestive Health Institute team can help you take steps that can keep your colon healthy. We recommend eating a diet that is high in fiber (fruits and vegetables), exercising, limiting alcohol and avoid smoking.