Polyps

Had a colonoscopy when I was 50 and 2.5 cm benign villous adanomous polyp was found and removed.  Had a colonoscopy done 18 months later and very small benign polyp with villous tendencies was found and extracted and was located in same area as original polyp.  I am going to have another colonoscopy in one year.  
Questions:
1. How long does it take for polyps to grow and turn cancerous?
2. Is one course of action to get annual colonoscopies and remove any polyps before they turn cancerous? I have no problem doing this but wanted to get your opinion.
3. Is surgery a good option for me?  My doctor and I discussed laprascopic surgery in that area of the colon where the polyps seem to be developing.  We would do that if there was another polyp occurence.  What do you think?
4. Finally, as long as I stay on top of this, i.e. make sure that these polyps are removed before they become cancerous, am I doing everything I can?

Thanks very much

[Kevin Pho, MD]

To answer your questions:
1) It would vary from patient to patient.  But the time frame would be in the order of years.

2) The recommendation for a villous polyp would be a repeat colonoscopy in 3 years.

3) That treatment course would be a reasonable approach.

4) Yes.  A surveillence colonoscopy in 3 years is recommended.  Depending on the size of the polyp, this can be shortened to one year.  

These questions can be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_

[shel2558]

A related discussion, recovering after colon surgery was started.