Colon Cancer and Polyps

 
Key points to know :
 
Colonic polyps are small growths that occur inside the lining of the large bowel.
 
There are two kinds of polyps. One polyp is called hyperplastic polyp.
 
This polyp is currently thought NOT to turn into cancer.
 
The other polyp is called adenomatous polyp.
 
This polyp can turn into colon cancer.
 
Polyps tend to recur either in the same location or different locations. That is why patients often need repeat evaluation with a colonoscopy every 2 to 5 years.
 
Polyps are detected by doing a test called flexible sigmoidoscopy (which is an incomplete evaluation of the colon) or a colonoscopy. If you have a polyp detected on a flexible sigmoidoscopy, then you will require a complete evaluation with a colonoscopy.
 
Polyps and Colon cancer run in families. If you have a family history of colon cancer or colonic polyps, then you should consult your doctor for further evaluation.
 
Polyps typically are thought to occur more frequently after 50 years of age. Patients who have passed the age of 50 are often sent to a gastroenterologist (GI specialist) for evaluation. The purpose is to remove the polyps before they turn into cancer.
 
Most often patients DO NOT have symptoms with polyp or cancer. That is why Medicare has now approved Screening Colonoscopy i.e. a colonoscopy procedure for all patients past the age of 50 even when they have no symptoms. This is similar to women undergoing pap smears and mammograms and men having a prostate examination although they do not have any symptoms.
 
Some patients may have blood detected by a rectal examination or by the "slide" (guaic slide) test.

Thus the concept of Screening colonoscopy came out.  Since most patients are ASYMPTOMATIC, all patients should undergo a routine colonoscopy.  Generally the recommended age is 50.  However this can vary.  In African american patients the recommended age for screening colonoscopy is 45 (they tend to get cancers earlier).  If you have a family history of HNPCC or Lynch Syndrome, screening starts at 20 and if you have a family history o f Gardners Syndrome, screening starts at age 10.

Reducing Your Risk of Colon Cancer:

            Take multivitamin with Selenium. Eat a high fiber diet. Avoid red meats. Exercise and Aspirin is helpful as well.

 

I am pleased to state that Blue Hen Surgery center (the place where I do most of my procedures) was the first in the state of Delaware to get the High Definition scopes 4 years ago.  Right now, except for the hospital, we are the ONLY facility in Dover, De that has high definition scopes.

I am also proud to say that we follow all medicare and AMA guidelines in scope withdrawl. It is recommended that the scope withdrawl time be at least 6 minutes to ensure adequate visualizaton. 

 
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