Colon Polyps
Growths on the inner lining of the colon that may be precancerous and require removal.
Overview
Colon polyps are growths on the inner lining of the colon. Most are benign but adenomatous polyps are precancerous — the adenoma-carcinoma sequence takes 5-10 years. Colonoscopic removal of polyps prevents colon cancer.
Causes
- Genetic predisposition
- Western diet (low fiber, high fat/red meat)
- Aging
- Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
- Lynch syndrome
Risk Factors
- Age over 45
- Family history of polyps or colon cancer
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Alcohol
- Type 2 diabetes
- Inflammatory bowel disease
Symptoms
Diagnosis
- Colonoscopy (gold standard — detect and remove in same session)
- CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy)
- Stool DNA tests (Cologuard)
- Fecal immunochemical test (FIT)
Treatment Options
Surgical Treatment
Most polyps are removed endoscopically during colonoscopy. Surgery (segmental colectomy) is needed for: polyps too large for safe endoscopic removal, polyps with invasive cancer on pathology, or familial polyposis syndromes (FAP — total colectomy).
Recovery
Colonoscopic polypectomy: Outpatient, resume normal activities same day. Surgical colectomy: 4-6 days hospital stay, 3-4 weeks full recovery. Follow-up colonoscopy at 3-5 years depending on polyp type.
Prevention
- Colonoscopy screening from age 45
- High-fiber diet
- Regular exercise
- Maintain healthy weight
- Limit red/processed meat
- Avoid smoking
- Calcium and vitamin D supplementation may help
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all polyps cancerous?
How often do I need colonoscopy after polyp removal?
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