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Sessile Serrated Lesions
Sessile serrated lesions (SSLs) are flat colon polyps that can be challenging to detect yet pose cancer risks if dysplastic. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen employs advanced imaging, care, and minimally invasive techniques for early detection and removal.
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Family history of colon polyps or colorectal cancer
Age over 50
Low-fiber, high-fat diet
Smoking
Chronic inflammation (Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis)
Signs and Symptoms
Often none in early stages
Mild abdominal discomfort
Blood in the stool
Changes in bowel habits (persistent diarrhea or constipation)
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Sessile Serrated Lesions?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your digestive symptoms—epigastric discomfort, blood in the stool, changes in bowel habits—along with personal and family risk factors for colon polyps and colorectal cancer.
Laboratory Tests
When epigastric pain is prominent, he may order blood work to check for anemia or inflammation and breath or stool tests to screen for H. pylori infection.
Colonoscopy with Enhanced Imaging
A high-definition colonoscope is used to inspect the entire colon. Chromoendoscopy or narrow-band imaging may be added to highlight flat, hard-to-see sessile serrated lesions.
Biopsy and Pathology Evaluation
Any suspicious area is biopsied or removed on the spot. The tissue goes to pathology to confirm a sessile serrated lesion and detect any dysplasia.
Additional Diagnostic Studies (if needed)
CT colonography when a complete colonoscopy isn't possible.
Upper endoscopy if persistent epigastric pain suggests an upper-GI cause.
Follow-Up and Surveillance Plan
Based on your findings—size of lesion, presence of dysplasia, overall health—Dr. Nguyen sets a personalized schedule for repeat colonoscopy and recommends dietary, lifestyle, or medical therapies to reduce recurrence risk.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for sessile serrated lesions.
1. Diet and Lifestyle Changes
High-fiber diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Adequate hydration to support healthy digestion
Smoking cessation and moderation of alcohol intake
Regular physical activity such as walking or swimming
2. Medications
Low-dose aspirin to reduce polyp recurrence risk
Anti-inflammatory agents tailored to your needs
Vitamin supplements when indicated
3. Minimally Invasive Treatments
Cold snare polypectomy for small sessile serrated lesions
Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) for larger or flatter polyps
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are sessile serrated lesions?
SSLs make up about one in four colon polyps and are often found in the right side of the colon.
Do SSLs always turn into cancer?
No. SSLs without dysplasia may stay benign. However, follow-up is important to catch changes early.
How often do I need a colonoscopy after SSLs are found?
Follow-up is usually needed in three to five years. The timing depends on the size of the lesion and the pathology results.
Is colonoscopy painful?
Most people feel little or no pain. You are given medication to help you relax and stay comfortable.
Can lifestyle changes prevent more SSLs?
Yes. Eating healthy, staying active, and avoiding tobacco all help lower the risk.
What happens if my SSL has dysplasia?
Dr. Nguyen will remove it completely and may schedule a follow-up sooner. This helps prevent cancer from developing.
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