COLORECTAL CONDITION · CONDITION GUIDE
Colon Polyps
Abnormal growths in the lining of the colon that may be benign or have malignant potential — detected and removed endoscopically or surgically to prevent progression to colorectal cancer.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Colon Polyps?
Colon polyps are abnormal growths projecting from the mucosal lining of the colon. Most are benign, but adenomatous polyps carry a risk of progression to colorectal cancer if not removed. Polyps are usually asymptomatic and discovered incidentally on colonoscopy performed for screening or investigation of symptoms. High-risk features include size greater than 1 cm, villous histology, high-grade dysplasia, and multiple polyps. Dr. Tagore Mohan Grandhi performs colonoscopic polypectomy and endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) for colon polyps at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad. Most polyps can be safely removed endoscopically at the time of colonoscopy. Large or complex polyps may require EMR or laparoscopic colectomy if endoscopic removal is incomplete or technically not feasible.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Age — polyp incidence increases significantly after 50
- Family history of colorectal cancer or polyposis syndromes (FAP, HNPCC)
- Diet high in red meat and low in fibre
- Obesity, smoking, and excess alcohol consumption
- Inflammatory bowel disease increasing polyp risk
- Hereditary polyposis syndromes causing multiple adenomas
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Polypectomy reduces colorectal cancer risk by over 80%
Colonoscopy recommended from age 45–50 or earlier with risk factors
Polypectomy, EMR, or laparoscopic resection based on polyp size
Repeat colonoscopy at 1–5 years depending on polyp characteristics
Same-day discharge for most endoscopic procedures
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hitech City, Hyderabad
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR)
For large or flat polyps not amenable to standard snare polypectomy, endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) allows complete en-bloc or piecemeal removal without surgery. Dr. Grandhi uses EMR to remove complex polyps safely in a day-case setting, avoiding the need for colectomy in the majority of patients.
- 1
Colonoscopy & Polyp Assessment
Colonoscopy identifies and characterises polyps by size, morphology, and surface pattern. Advanced imaging techniques (narrow-band imaging, chromoendoscopy) help predict histology and plan removal strategy.
- 2
Polypectomy or EMR Planning
Small pedunculated polyps are removed by snare polypectomy. Large, flat, or sessile polyps are removed by EMR with submucosal injection to lift the lesion from the bowel wall.
- 3
Endoscopic Removal
Polypectomy or EMR is performed under conscious sedation as a day-case procedure. Clips or coagulation are used to prevent post-procedural bleeding. The specimen is retrieved for histological analysis.
- 4
Surveillance & Follow-up
Histology results guide the surveillance interval. High-risk adenomas require repeat colonoscopy at 1–3 years. Patients with familial risk undergo regular surveillance colonoscopy.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
TreatmentOptions
Polypectomy
Endoscopic removal of colonic polyps by snare or forceps at the time of colonoscopy. Standard treatment for small and pedunculated polyps.
Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR)
Advanced endoscopic technique for removing large, flat, or complex polyps by injecting fluid beneath the lesion and excising it en bloc or in pieces.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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