What is a Polyp? A Polyp is bit of skin in the colon where genetic abnormalities have occurred over time, causing a "heaped-up" appearance. Of people over 40, approximately 20-30% will have some sort of polyp. Some polyps (like hyperplastic) have very little malignant risk, others (adenomatous & villous) carry more risk. Studies have shown that approximately 1% of adenomatous polyps will grow into Colon Cancer, usually over about a ten year period. Experts agree that removing these polyps before they become cancer is key in interrupting the cycle. Through the scope, special electrified pinchers (forceps) or cutting loops (snares) can burn or cut these polyps off, decreasing the risk. New polyps can grow, so we invite patients back for rechecks at specified intervals.
Hepatitis C: Now is the time to eradicate this chronic infection.
Dr. Powell states he chose to practice Gastroenterology, “to treat a wide scope of different problems and afflictions and using modern treatment to help these patients feel better.”
