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Colon Polyp
Colon polyps are small growths in the large intestine that can become cancerous if untreated. Dr. Scott at GastroDoxs in Houston offers expert screening, gentle colonoscopies, and personalized care plans. Early detection and removal significantly reduce colon cancer your risk.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
He reviews your pain characteristics (onset, duration, triggers), diet, medications, alcohol use, and family history. A focused abdominal exam checks for tenderness in the epigastric region.
Laboratory Tests
He orders blood work including:
Complete blood count (CBC) to look for anemia or infection
Liver function tests and pancreatic enzymes (amylase, lipase)
H. pylori breath or stool antigen test, if ulcer disease is suspected
Imaging and Endoscopy
Abdominal ultrasound to evaluate the gallbladder, liver, and pancreas for stones or inflammation
Upper endoscopy (EGD) to directly visualize the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum and obtain biopsies if needed
CT scan of the abdomen in select cases to assess pancreas or look for complications
Specialized Testing (if needed)
For persistent or unclear cases, he may recommend:
Gastric emptying study for gastroparesis
MRI/MRCP to examine bile and pancreatic ducts
24-hour pH monitoring for acid reflux evaluation
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for colon polyps.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Eating more fiber from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Drinking plenty of water each day
Cutting back on red meat and processed foods
Staying active-aim for daily movement
Avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol intake
2. Medications
Low-dose aspirin or NSAIDs (if appropriate for you)
Calcium or vitamin D supplements, based on individual needs
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Polypectomy: Removing the polyp with a snare during colonoscopy
Endoscopic mucosal resection for larger or sessile polyps
Submucosal dissection for more complex or high-risk lesions
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a colonoscopy take?
Most procedures last between 30 and 60 minutes.
What do cancerous polyps look like?
They may be larger than 1 cm and have uneven or raised surfaces.
What should I eat after polyp removal?
Start with clear liquids, then add low-fiber foods like rice and eggs. Most people return to a regular diet within a few days.
Are there side effects after polyp removal?
Some patients feel bloated or crampy and might see a little blood. This is normal and usually resolves quickly.
How often should I be screened?
If you've had polyps, a repeat colonoscopy is usually recommended in 3 to 5 years, depending on your findings.
Will my insurance cover this?
Most insurance plans cover colonoscopy and polyp removal. Our team can assist you in verifying your benefits.
Can polyps come back?
Yes. Regular screenings help detect new polyps early before they become serious.
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