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Sessile Serrated Lesions

Sessile serrated lesions (SSLs) are colon polyps with malignant potential, often evading detection. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Rishi Chadha employs advanced imaging, precise endoscopic techniques, and personalized care to diagnose, remove, and manage SSLs-empowering patients to safeguard colon health.

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Rishi Chadha

About the Expert

Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.

What Are Sessile Serrated Lesions?

  • Flat or slightly raised polyps in the colon
  • Often grow slowly and may be hard to detect on colonoscopy
  • Saw-tooth appearance under the microscope
  • Benign at first but can progress to cancer over time

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Age over 50
  • Family history of colon polyps or colorectal cancer
  • Personal history of inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's or ulcerative colitis)
  • Smoking or heavy alcohol use
  • Overweight or physically inactive lifestyle
  • Certain inherited gene mutations

Signs and Symptoms

  • Often no symptoms in early stages
  • Belly cramps or discomfort
  • Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
  • Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation)
  • Fatigue from slow, chronic blood loss

How Dr. Rishi Chadha Diagnoses Sessile Serrated Lesions?

Dr. Rishi Chadha uses advanced diagnostic techniques:

Colonoscopy with High-Definition Imaging

He employs state-of-the-art HD endoscopes to spot flat or subtle serrated polyps during routine colonoscopy.

Biopsy and Pathologic Evaluation

Targeted tissue samples are obtained and reviewed under the microscope to confirm sessile serrated lesions and check for dysplasia.

CT Colonography (Virtual Colon Exam)

A non-invasive imaging alternative that provides a detailed view of the entire colon when needed.

ICD-10 Coding for Accurate Records

Uses code D12.9 (benign neoplasm of colon, unspecified) to ensure precise documentation and follow-up planning.

Genetic Testing for High-Risk Patients

Recommended for individuals with a family history of colorectal polyps or cancer to assess inherited predisposition.

Dr. Rishi Chadha
Treatment

Treatment Options at GastroDoxs

1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes

  • Eat more fiber (fruits, veggies, whole grains)
  • Cut down on red meat and processed foods
  • Stay active-move daily for 30 minutes
  • Quit smoking and drink less alcohol

2. Medications

  • Low-dose aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs (only if recommended)
  • Vitamin D and calcium supplements (when advised)

3. Minimally Invasive Procedures

  • Cold snare polypectomy: For small lesions
  • Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR): For larger or tricky polyps
  • Chromoendoscopy: Uses dye to see flat lesions clearly
  • Follow-up colonoscopy: Every 3 to 5 years, depending on results
Rishi Chadha

About the Author

Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a sessile serrated lesion?

A flat or slightly raised colon polyp with saw-tooth shaped cells that can become cancerous if left untreated.

Are these lesions already cancerous?

No. SSLs start benign, but some may progress to cancer over time if not removed.

How do sessile serrated lesions differ from adenomas?

SSLs have serrated (saw-tooth) cell patterns and often hide in colon folds, unlike adenomas which display a different cellular architecture.

What is the ICD-10 code for a sessile serrated lesion?

D12.9 - benign neoplasm of the colon, unspecified.

Can I have a lesion without dysplasia?

Yes. SSLs without dysplasia show no early cancer signs, but removal is still recommended to prevent progression.

How often should I undergo follow-up screening?

Typically every 3-5 years, depending on the size, number, and pathology of removed polyps.

Can diet and lifestyle changes reduce my risk?

Yes. Eating more fiber, cutting down on red and processed meats, staying active, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol can help lower your risk.

Are there non-surgical treatments for SSLs?

Most SSLs are removed during a colonoscopy using minimally invasive techniques like cold snare polypectomy or endoscopic mucosal resection.

Does family history affect my risk?

Yes. Having a parent or sibling with colon polyps or colorectal cancer increases your likelihood of developing SSLs.

How do I prepare for a colonoscopy?

Follow Dr. Chadha's instructions: use the prescribed bowel prep kit, stick to a clear liquid diet, and arrive well-hydrated on the day of the procedure.

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