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Rectal Polyps Specialist - Dr. Scott Liu
Dr. Scott offers professional screening and treatment of rectal polyps-small growths on the rectal lining that are likely to develop into cancer at GastroDoxs in Houston. Colonoscopy will help to reduce the chances of developing colon cancer early on and will bring peace of mind to maintain the best health in the colon.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Age over 50 years
Family history of colon or rectal polyps
Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis)
Diet low in fiber and high in red or processed meats
Smoking or heavy alcohol use
Signs and Symptoms
Often none in the early stages
Bright red blood on toilet paper or in the stool
Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation)
Pain or cramping in the lower abdomen
Mucus in the stool
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Rectal Polyps?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Risk Assessment
He examines your medical and family history, bowel, nutrition, and other dangerous factors.
Digital Rectal Exam
He performs a gentle rectal exam to feel for any unusual growths or abnormalities.
Colonoscopy
High-definition imaging to inspect the entire colon and rectum.
Enables detection and immediate removal of suspicious polyps.
Biopsy and Pathology
Any polyp that is removed is submitted to the lab to ascertain its benignity, precarity or malignancy.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for rectal polyps.
Lifestyle and Diet Changes
Consumption of increased amounts of fiber in fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
Limiting the use of red and processed meat.
Eating healthy diets With frequent physical exercise.
Restraining liquor and smoking cessation.
Medications
Aspirin, low dose or other anti-inflammatory medications as directed.
Calcium or vitamin D supplement to aid in colon health.
Minimal Labor Surgery
Polypectomy that entails the removal of small- to medium-sized polyps during colonoscopy.
Larger and more difficult polyps of endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR).
Personalized schedule of follow-up colonoscopy depending on the findings.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are rectal polyps cancerous?
Majority of the rectal polyps are benign although some of them develop into cancer when not treated. Early disease identification and treatment can reduce your risk.
What causes rectal polyps?
They include age (above 50-years), a family history of polyps, inflammatory bowel diseases, low-fiber/high-meat diet, smoking, and excessive drinking.
But what shall I know whether it were a hemorrhoid or a polyp?
Both of them lead to bleeding, and only a close examination and colonoscopy by Dr. Scott can help to distinguish the two.
Why do rectal polyps bleed?
Polyps are lumps that may be irritated by feces or straining resulting in bleeding.
How often do I need screening?
The intervals of screening are dependent on your own history and your polyp history. Dr. Scott will suggest a plan of action-frequently every 3-10 years- depending upon what you discover.
Is it possible to prevent polyps using diet?
Yes. High level of fiber (whole grain, vegetables, fruits) and low-red/processed meat diet and exercise may assist in minimizing your risk.
Is polyp removal painful?
No. During a sedated colonoscopy, removal is carried out hence most patients do not have much or no discomfort.