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Tubulovillous Adenomas
At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen specializes in diagnosing and treating tubulovillous adenomas—precancerous polyps that can progress to cancer. With expert care, personalized plans, and advanced early screening techniques, Dr. Nguyen helps protect and improve your overall colon health.
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
Age over 50 years
Family history of colon polyps or colorectal cancer
Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation)
Abdominal pain, cramps, or discomfort
Unexplained weight loss (rare)
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Exam
He reviews your personal and family history, asks about symptoms such as epigastric pain or changes in bowel habits, and evaluates dietary and lifestyle risk factors.
Colonoscopy
A flexible, high-definition scope is used to inspect the entire colon. Any suspicious polyps are either removed on the spot or sampled for further analysis.
Pathology Analysis
Removed tissue is sent to the lab to confirm whether the lesion is a tubulovillous adenoma and to determine the presence and grade of dysplasia.
Additional Imaging (if needed)
CT Colonography provides a non-invasive, detailed map of the colon when standard colonoscopy isn't feasible.
Endoscopic Ultrasound evaluates the depth of large or flat lesions and helps plan advanced removal techniques.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for tubulovillous adenomas.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Increase intake of fruits, vegetables and whole grains to support colon health
Limit red meat and processed foods known to raise polyp risk
Encourage regular exercise to improve bowel function
Advise smoking cessation and moderation of alcohol use
2. Medications
Consider low-dose aspirin or other anti-inflammatory agents for eligible patients
Review patient history and lab results to balance benefits and risks
Ongoing monitoring to adjust therapy based on response
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Colonoscopy with polypectomy for small to medium polyps
Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) for larger or flat lesions
Use of high-resolution scopes and advanced imaging for precise detection
Scheduled surveillance colonoscopies to catch and remove new growths early
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 often should I get screened after having a tubulovillous adenoma?
Most patients need another colonoscopy within three years. This helps find and remove any new growths early.
Can this type of polyp become cancer?
Yes. Tubulovillous adenomas can turn into cancer, especially if they show high-grade dysplasia. Removing them lowers the risk.
Are there any non-invasive tests that work?
Stool tests can show hidden blood but do not find or remove polyps. Colonoscopy is the most reliable method for detection and removal.
Does polyp removal hurt?
No. You're given medication to help you relax or sleep. Most people remember little and feel fine after the procedure.
What does high-grade dysplasia mean?
It means the cells in the polyp look more abnormal under a microscope, which increases the chance of the polyp turning into cancer.
Do diet changes really make a difference?
Yes. A diet high in fiber and low in fat supports colon health and may help prevent future polyps.
Will I need time off after polyp removal?
Most people go home the same day and return to normal activities within 24 hours. You may need to avoid heavy lifting for a short time.
