Question: My brother has polyps and his doctor has advised him to have them removed. Can they be prevented from spreading?




Dr. Hibberd's Answer:

Polyps are well-delineated growths readily removed by colonoscopy. Polyps usually form as solid tissue within the wall of the bowel which project into the lumen. Polyps may enlarge and may be part of a multiple polyp condition such as familial polyposis, but do not usually spread unless they have developed malignant characteristics. It is important to have polyps removed when discovered, as it is hard to be sure which will undergo malignant transformation and set the stage for colon malignancy. Colon cancer can be prevented by regular re-evaluation and removal of polyps.