Which Polyps Seen on Imaging Should Be Referred for Colonoscopy?

New data support the use of colonoscopy and polypectomy in patients who have polyps ≥6 mm detected by an imaging-only strategy.

What is the appropriate follow-up for colorectal polyps that are detected during imaging-only screening studies, such as flexible sigmoidoscopy without biopsy, double-contrast barium enema, Aer-O-Scope, and computed tomographic (CT) colonography? Guidelines are clear for follow-up of polyps ≥1 cm, but controversy exists with regard to smaller polyps, particularly those detected by CT colonography only. The American College of Gastroenterology recommends colonoscopy and polypectomy in patients with polyps ≥6 mm. The American College of Radiology, however, recommends that patients with 6- to 9-mm polyps be offered repeat CT colonography within 1 to 3 years as an alternative to colonoscopy and polypectomy.

To explore the relation between polyp …

Reviewing Author

Douglas K. Rex, MD

Which Polyps Seen on Imaging Should Be Referred for Colonoscopy?

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Reviewing Author