Intestinal Polyps

What it is

Intestinal polyps are small growths that develop on the inner wall of the colon or rectum. Most are benign, but some types, such as adenomas, can turn into colorectal cancer over the years, which makes identification and removal one of the most effective forms of prevention. They are usually silent and found during routine exams, although larger polyps can cause bleeding, mucus in the stool, or a change in bowel habits. At Femi Saúde, the coloproctology team guides screening based on age and family history, recommends colonoscopy at the right time, and, based on the biopsy result, sets the appropriate follow-up interval for each patient.

Most common symptoms

• In most cases, no symptoms
• Bright red or dark blood in the stool
• Mucus in the stool
• Change in bowel habits
• Anemia from occult blood loss
• Occasional abdominal pain or cramping

Causes and risk factors

• Age over 45
• Family history of polyps or cancer
• Diet high in processed meats
• Smoking and alcohol consumption
• Overweight and a sedentary lifestyle
• Hereditary genetic syndromes

How it is diagnosed

Colonoscopy is the gold-standard exam: it allows the entire colon and rectum to be examined, identifies polyps just a few millimeters in size, and removes them in the same session, sending the tissue for analysis. The coloproctologist recommends screening starting at age 45 for those without risk factors, or earlier when there is a family history, symptoms, or inflammatory bowel disease. Fecal occult blood tests can serve as screening, but a positive result always requires a colonoscopy. The biopsy report defines the polyp type and guides the interval for the next exam.

How we treat it at Femi Saúde

Treatment consists of removing the polyp, a polypectomy, almost always performed during the colonoscopy itself using a snare or forceps, with no external cuts and a quick recovery. Large polyps or those in hard-to-reach locations may require advanced endoscopic techniques or, in selected cases, surgery. Based on the biopsy result, the coloproctology team at Femi Saúde sets a surveillance plan, with a new colonoscopy at intervals ranging from one to ten years. Lifestyle changes, such as more fiber, physical activity, and less alcohol and tobacco, reduce the risk of new polyps.

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