Symptoms of Familial Polyposis
Familial polyposis is a condition that primarily affects the large intestine. Most commonly, FAP leads to the development of polyps, or precancerous growths, in the lining of the colon and rectum. Patients with FAP are likely to develop hundreds, or even thousands, of these polyps. In the early stages of FAP, these polyps may not result in any noticeable symptoms. However, as the condition progresses and more polyps develop, patients may experience a number of uncomfortable side effects, including the following:
- Mucous discharge
- Blood in the stool
- Diarrhea
- Cramping and abdominal pain
- Weight loss
Diagnosing Familial Polyposis
Left untreated, FAP can be a life threatening condition. At least some of a patient’s polyps will become cancerous if they are not treated. Fortunately, with early treatment, patients can avoid the risks of FAP, as well as the uncomfortable symptoms that may develop as this condition progresses. Because FAP is a genetic condition, any individual who has a family history of this condition should undergo genetic testing. With a simple blood test, a patient can learn if he or she has the genetic mutation that causes FAP. Those with the mutation can undergo a colonoscopy to determine if FAP is present.
Treating Familial Polyposis
The only effective treatment for FAP is surgery. Unfortunately, due to the number of polyps that a patient typically develops, it is not possible to remove the polyps individually. Instead, it is likely that the entire large bowel will need to be removed. While this can be a scary prospect, this surgery is also one that can save a patient’s life by preventing colon cancer. To minimize the risks of surgical treatment and ensure a quicker recovery period, our doctors offer laparoscopic surgery.
Laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive surgical technique that requires a very small incision. With the use of thin surgical tools, as well as a tiny camera, our doctors can perform the surgical procedure without having to make a large incision. This technique provides patients with a number of benefits, including the following:
- Less bleeding
- Shorter hospital stay
- Reduced discomfort following surgery
- Quicker return of bowel movements
- Minimal risk of infection at the incision site
- Minor scarring
- Faster recovery period
Because of its numerous benefits, as well as its effectiveness, laparoscopic surgery is a popular choice in the treatment of FAP.
Schedule an Appointment
The only way to avoid the risks of familial polyposis is through timely medical treatment. At the Laparoscopic Surgical Center of New York, we offer patients the treatment they need to get rid of dangerous polyps and avoid the development of colon cancer. To learn more about our minimally invasive treatment techniques, schedule an appointment with one of our experienced surgeons at your earliest convenience.
