Colorectal Polyps Melbourne

This page provides general information about colorectal polyps, which are growths in the colon or rectum that can sometimes lead to health concerns. This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate screening or treatment for you.

What are Colorectal Polyps?

Colorectal polyps are abnormal tissue growths that form on the inner lining of the colon (large intestine) or rectum. Most polyps are benign (non-cancerous), but some types, particularly adenomatous polyps, have the potential to develop into colorectal cancer over time if left untreated. Polyps vary in size, shape, and type, and they are common, especially in people over 50 years old. Early detection and removal can help prevent progression to cancer.

Who is at Risk?

Colorectal polyps can affect anyone, but certain factors may increase the likelihood:

• Age over 50 years.
• Family history of polyps or colorectal cancer.
• Personal history of polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, or certain genetic conditions (e.g., familial adenomatous polyposis).
• Lifestyle factors such as a diet low in fibre and high in processed meats, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, or lack of physical activity.

Not everyone with risk factors will develop polyps, and some people without known risks may still have them. Northern Surgical Care or your doctor can assess your individual risk based on your medical history and recommend screening if appropriate.

Symptoms

Many colorectal polyps do not cause symptoms and are often discovered during routine screening tests. When symptoms occur, they may include:

• Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool.
• Changes in bowel habits, such as persistent diarrhoea or constipation.
• Abdominal pain or cramping.
• Unexplained anaemia or fatigue.

These symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it is important to consult a healthcare professional for evaluation.

How are They Detected?

Colorectal polyps are typically detected through screening procedures, such as:

• Colonoscopy: A flexible tube with a camera is used to examine the entire colon and rectum, allowing for visualization and potential removal of polyps.
• Other tests like faecal occult blood testing (FOBT) or sigmoidoscopy may be used in some cases, but colonoscopy is the most comprehensive for polyp detection.

Screening guidelines in Australia recommend starting regular checks from age 50 for average-risk individuals, or earlier if you have higher risk factors. Discuss screening options with your doctor.

Treatment

If polyps are found, they are often removed during the same procedure (polypectomy) using tools passed through the colonoscope. This is a minimally invasive process. Removed polyps are sent for laboratory analysis to determine their type and any cancerous changes. Depending on the findings, follow-up surveillance may be recommended. In rare cases, larger or multiple polyps may require surgical intervention.

Prevention

While not all polyps can be prevented, you can reduce your risk by:

• Maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Engaging in regular physical activity.
• Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol intake.
• Participating in recommended colorectal cancer screening programs.

Lifestyle changes should be discussed with your healthcare provider as part of a broader health plan.

Side Effects and Risks of Detection and Treatment

Procedures like colonoscopy and polypectomy are generally safe but may carry risks such as:

• Mild discomfort, bloating, or cramping post-procedure.
• Rare complications like bleeding, infection, or perforation of the colon.

Your doctor will explain these risks and how they are managed.

Recovery Time

Recovery from a colonoscopy with polypectomy is usually quick:

• Most patients resume normal activities within 24 hours.
• Mild symptoms like gas or minor bleeding may occur but typically resolve soon.
• Follow dietary and activity advice provided by your healthcare team.

Important Disclaimer

This information is general and based on available medical evidence. The presence, type, and outcomes related to colorectal polyps vary between individuals. Screening and treatment should only be undertaken under the supervision of qualified healthcare professionals. For personalised advice, risks, and benefits, please consult your doctor or specialist. If you experience symptoms like rectal bleeding or changes in bowel habits, seek medical attention promptly.

Last updated: August 2025.

References

The information provided is supported by the following recent peer-reviewed studies:

• GENETICS IN COLORECTAL METASTASIS FOR SURGEONS. Arq Bras Cir Dig. 2025 Feb 10;38:e1819. doi: 10.1590/0102-672020250001e1819.
• In Silico Deciphering of the Potential Impact of Variants of Uncertain Significance: Lessons Learned from the MUTYH-Associated Polyposis Syndrome. Cancers (Basel). 2024 Aug 6;16(15):2787. doi: 10.3390/cancers16152787.
• Clinical Assessment and Genetic Testing for Hereditary Polyposis Syndromes. Clin Colon Rectal Surg. 2024 Oct 26. doi: 10.1055/s-0044-1791570.
• Clinical and Molecular Characterization of SMAD4 Splicing Variants in Patients with Juvenile Polyposis Syndrome. Cancers (Basel). 2024 Jul 20;16(14):2611. doi: 10.3390/cancers16142611.
• Risk Factors for Colorectal Polyps and Cancer. Gastrointest Endosc Clin N Am. 2022 Apr;32(2):195-213. doi: 10.1016/j.giec.2021.12.008.
• Cause, Epidemiology, and Histology of Polyps and Pathways to Colorectal Cancer. Gastrointest Endosc Clin N Am. 2022 Apr;32(2):177-194. doi: 10.1016/j.giec.2021.12.010.
• Endoscopic Recognition and Classification of Colorectal Polyps. Gastrointest Endosc Clin N Am. 2022 Apr;32(2):227-240. doi: 10.1016/j.giec.2021.12.003.
• Evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for management of colorectal polyps. J Gastroenterol. 2021 Jun;56(6):323-335. doi: 10.1007/s00535-021-01776-9.
• Endoscopic recognition and management strategies for malignant colorectal polyps: recommendations of the US Multi-Society Task Force on Colorectal Cancer. Gastroenterology. 2020 Nov;159(5):1916-1934. doi: 10.1053/j.gastro.2020.08.050.
• Colonic Polyps: Diagnosis and Surveillance. Clin Colon Rectal Surg. 2019 Nov;32(6):436-440. doi: 10.1055/s-0039-1693008