Colonoscopy is a crucial screening tool for detecting and preventing colorectal cancer, and one of the most important things it can identify are polyps. Polyps are small growths that develop on the lining of the colon or rectum, and while most are benign (non-cancerous), some can develop into cancer over time if left untreated. In this blog post, we'll explore what happens when polyps are found during a colonoscopy, and what you can expect in terms of follow-up care and monitoring.
What Are Colon Polyps?
Colon polyps are small clumps of cells that form on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. They can vary in size, shape, and number, and are often classified into two main types:
Hyperplastic polyps: These are usually small, benign growths that do not typically develop into cancer. They are more common in the lower part of the colon and rectum.
Adenomatous polyps (adenomas): These polyps are considered precancerous, meaning they have the potential to develop into colorectal cancer over time. They are more common in the upper part of the colon.
Most polyps do not cause any symptoms and are only detected during a colonoscopy or other screening test. However, in some cases, larger polyps may cause rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, or abdominal pain.
What Happens When Polyps Are Found During a Colonoscopy?
If your gastroenterologist identifies polyps during your colonoscopy, they will typically remove them immediately using special instruments passed through the colonoscope. This is done for two main reasons:
To prevent the polyp from developing into cancer: By removing the polyp, your doctor can stop it from growing and potentially becoming cancerous.
To examine the polyp under a microscope: The removed polyp will be sent to a laboratory for analysis to determine its type and whether it contains any precancerous or cancerous cells.
The polyp removal process, called a polypectomy, is generally quick and painless, as you will be sedated during the procedure. In most cases, you will not feel any discomfort or even be aware that the polyp has been removed.
Follow-Up Care After Polyp Removal
The follow-up care and monitoring you'll need after having polyps removed during a colonoscopy will depend on several factors, including:
The number of polyps found
The size of the polyps
The type of polyps (hyperplastic or adenomatous)
The presence of any precancerous or cancerous cells
In general, if you have had adenomatous polyps removed, you will need more frequent colonoscopies to monitor for the development of new polyps or colorectal cancer. The exact schedule will depend on your individual risk factors and the characteristics of the polyps removed, but may involve a repeat colonoscopy in as little as 1-3 years.
If you have had only small, hyperplastic polyps removed, you may be able to follow a standard screening schedule, which typically involves a colonoscopy every 10 years for individuals at average risk.
Your gastroenterologist will provide personalized recommendations for your follow-up care based on your unique situation and the results of your polyp analysis.
Reducing Your Risk of Colon Polyps and Colorectal Cancer
While some risk factors for colon polyps and colorectal cancer, such as age and family history, cannot be changed, there are several lifestyle modifications you can make to reduce your risk:
Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Limit your intake of red and processed meats
Maintain a healthy weight through regular physical activity
Don't smoke, and limit your alcohol consumption
Get regular colorectal cancer screenings as recommended by your healthcare provider
TAKING ACTION WHEN POLYPS ARE FOUND
Finding polyps during a colonoscopy can be concerning, but it's important to remember that this is precisely why colonoscopies are performed – to identify and remove these growths before they have a chance to develop into cancer.
If you have had polyps found during a colonoscopy, contact me to schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss your results and develop a personalized plan for ongoing monitoring and care. As a gastroenterologist with expertise in colorectal cancer prevention, I am committed to providing the highest quality care and support to help you maintain optimal digestive health.
Remember, by staying proactive about your colon health through regular screenings, lifestyle modifications, and follow-up care when needed, you can greatly reduce your risk of developing colorectal cancer and enjoy a lifetime of good health and vitality.