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Tubulovillous Adenomas

Discover trusted expert care for tubulovillous adenomas with Dr. Bharat Pothuri at GastroDoxs in Houston. These colon growths blend tubular and villous shapes, and early detection through colonoscopy and advanced removal techniques promptly safeguards your health. Schedule a screening today.

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Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Memorial hermann
Houston Methodist leading Medicine
HCA Houston Healthcare
Bharat Pothuri

About the Expert

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a board-certified gastroenterologist and the founder of GastroDoxs. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Age over 50
  • Family history of colon cancer or colon polyps
  • High intake of red or processed meats
  • Low-fiber diet
  • Smoking or heavy alcohol use
  • Overweight or obesity
  • Lack of regular physical activity
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis)

Signs and Symptoms

  • Often none in early stages
  • Blood in the stool
  • Persistent constipation or diarrhea
  • Abdominal pain or cramping
  • Unintended weight loss

Expert Treatment for Tubulovillous Adenomas by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

Step-by-Step Diagnostic Approach

Medical History and Physical Exam

Dr. Pothuri begins by reviewing your symptoms-especially epigastric discomfort, changes in bowel habits, and any bleeding. He'll discuss your personal and family history of polyps or colon cancer, dietary habits, alcohol and tobacco use, and other risk factors.

Stool Testing

He may order a fecal immunochemical test (FIT) to detect hidden blood in the stool, which can be an early sign of polyps or tumors.

Imaging Studies

  • CT Colonography -A noninvasive, 3D -virtual colonoscopy- that highlights polyps and masses when a full colonoscopy is not immediately possible.
  • Abdominal Ultrasound -Used to rule out other causes of epigastric pain such as gallbladder disease or liver abnormalities.

Colonoscopy and Direct Visualization

A colonoscopy remains the gold standard. Under sedation, Dr. Pothuri uses a high-definition endoscope to inspect the entire colon, identify tubulovillous growths, and perform targeted biopsies.

Polyp Removal and Histopathology

Any polyps discovered are removed via polypectomy or advanced techniques (EMR/ESD) and sent to the pathology lab. Microscopic analysis confirms the diagnosis, grading dysplasia and ruling out cancer.

Dr. Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our team offers comprehensive care for tubulovillous adenomas and other colon polyps.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

While lifestyle changes cannot reverse existing tubulovillous adenomas, they may reduce the risk of new polyps forming and support overall colon health.

  • Eat more fiber (fruits, vegetables, whole grains)
  • Reduce red and processed meat intake
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
  • Maintain a regular exercise routine (30 minutes most days)
  • Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption

2. Medications and Preventive Supplements

These may help reduce the risk of recurrence in high-risk individuals but are not used to treat existing tubulovillous adenomas.

  • Low-dose aspirin (when safe and appropriate)
  • Calcium and vitamin D supplements to support colon health

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

Removal of tubulovillous adenomas is essential to prevent progression to colorectal cancer.

  • Polypectomy during colonoscopy for small to medium polyps
  • Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR) for larger growths
  • Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD) for flat or hard-to-reach polyps
  • Laparoscopic surgery for complex or sizable polyps
48K

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 48K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

20Y

Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

Bharat Pothuri

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these polyps cancer?

No. Tubulovillous adenomas are benign growths, but they can turn into cancer over time if not removed.

What is low-grade dysplasia?

Low-grade dysplasia means the polyp's cells show early abnormal changes but are not yet cancerous.

How often do I need a colonoscopy?

Typically every 3-5 years, depending on the number, size, and pathology of polyps found. Dr. Pothuri will recommend your personalized schedule.

Can a healthy diet stop new polyps?

A high-fiber, low red-meat diet can lower your risk but cannot prevent all polyps. Regular screening is still essential.

Does polyp removal hurt?

No. Procedures like polypectomy, EMR, and ESD are done under sedation. Most patients feel little to no pain and recover quickly.

Can I work the next day?

Yes. Most patients return to normal activities within 24 hours after polyp removal.

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