Rectal Polyps - What Should Be The Right Treatment For It?

Did you know that polyp formation is one of the common ailments of the large intestine, affecting close to 5-10 per cent of the population? Although majority of the polyps are asymptomatic in nature and do not form into cancer, it is important that you stay alert.

What is the disease all about?
When an abnormal growth arises from the lining of the rectum or colon, a polyp formation develops in the area. Rectum constitutes the last 12 inches of the intestine. It can be flat or take the shape of a broccoli. The latter is known as a pedunculated polyp. This being said, there is a small percentage of polyps that can turn into cancer over a span of 8-10 years. It is estimated that 95% of rectal cancers generate from polyps. Certain factors such as the size and type of the polyp decide the malignant nature of polyps. It is also dependent on the pre-cancerous changes.

The different types of polyps
There are 3 types of polyps. The first type of polyp is known as a tabular adenoma. This form has a 5 percent probability of turning into cancer. The second form of polyp is referred to as Tubulo-villous adenoma. There is a 20 percent risk of this form of polyp turning into cancer. The third form is known as a Villous adenoma. In terms of polyp size, there is a 1 percent risk factor involved of getting cancer in the polyp size is greater than 1 cm. Polyps that are in the range of 1-2 cm, has a 10 percent chance of turning into cancer. For the ones that are greater than 2 cm, there is a 40 percent probability of cancer.

Symptoms
Not too many symptoms are associated with rectal polyps. However, there are certain symptoms which are evident signs of rectal polyps. Some of them include bloody stool, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, mucous discharge, diarrhoea, constipation etc.

A word on the diagnosis
A digital rectal exam or sigmoidoscopy can identify rectal polyps. They can also be identified with x-ray, colonoscopy, barium enema etc. During the process of colonoscopy, doctors focus on the changes in the lining of the colon. Although there is no full proof method of detecting polyps, most doctors rely on a combination of the above-mentioned techniques to lock in on the diagnosis.

The right treatment
Many polyps can be removed immediately at the time of colonoscopy. This method can prevent cancer and help a person avoid unnecessary complications. If the polyp is too large, a surgical intervention might be required. If the location of the polyp is situated in the lower portion of the rectum, it can be eradicated by a process known as transanal excision. If the polyp is located higher above the rectum, it is generally removed by a process known as Trans Anal Minimally Invasive Surgery. If you wish to discuss about any specific problem, you can consult a General Surgeon.