Colorectal polyps are localized growths that appear from the colonic wall towards the intestinal lumen.
Depending on the characteristics of the tissue making up the polyps, they can be adenomas (with the potential to become malignant), hyperplastic (without the potential to become malignant), serrated (with the potential to become malignant), inflammatory (associated to some polyposis such as juvenile and Peutz-Jeghers’ disease).
Generally speaking, colonic polyps are referred to as adenomas, which if not treated at an early stage and continue to evolve naturally may end up developing into colorectal cáncer.
The video-colonoscopy is the technique used to diagnose colorectal polyps and for determining their number, location, and size. This techniques also allows for the extraction of these polyps, or for the taking of biopsies in case excision is not posible.
Preventive measures in terms of patient habits for decreasing the incidence of adenomatous colorectal polyps, and in this way decreasing the incidence of colorectal cancer, are:
◦Moderate the consumption of red meat, processed meats, well-done meat or cooked over a direct flame.
◦A diet low in fats and rich in fruits, vegetables, fibre, milk, and dairy products.
◦Regular and moderate physical exercise.
◦Avoid excess weight and obesity.
◦Abstain from consuming tobacco and alcohol.
Even though no symptomatology may be present, these preventive measures are very important, especially as of the age of 50.
The methods for detecting this pathology are the analysis of blood hidden in faeces and the colonoscopy.
If a polypectomy is to be performed during endoscopic exploration, patients will enter into prevention and monitoring programs for the detection of new polyps, establishing the time between each exploration according to the prior findings.