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Gastric Polyps
Discover how gastric polyps, small stomach lining growths often found incidentally, are expertly diagnosed and treated in Houston. At GastroDoxs, Dr. Scott combines advanced endoscopy techniques, personalized treatment plans, and supportive guidance to optimize your digestive health and peace of mind.
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.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Ongoing inflammation in the stomach (gastritis)
Long-term use of proton pump inhibitors (acid-reducing medications)
Infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)
Family history of stomach cancer or gastric polyps
Age over 50 years
Signs and Symptoms
Often none in early stages
Mild stomach pain or discomfort
Bloating or feeling full quickly
Occasional nausea
Loss of appetite
Dark or tarry stools (signs of bleeding/anemia)
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Symptom Review
He discusses your epigastric pain, bloating, nausea, appetite changes, medications, and family history of gastric issues.
Upper Endoscopy
Under mild sedation, a flexible endoscope is passed into the stomach to visualize the lining and identify any polyps or lesions.
Polyp Measurement and Biopsy
Polyps are carefully measured, photographed, and biopsied to obtain tissue samples for detailed examination.
Pathology Analysis
A gastrointestinal pathologist classifies the polyp type (e.g., hyperplastic, adenomatous) and assesses any dysplasia or malignancy risk.
ICD-10 Coding and Documentation
All findings are coded (for example, K31.7 for gastric polyps) and compiled into a clear report to guide your treatment plan.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for gastric polyps.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Eating smaller meals more often
Reducing spicy, fatty, or fried foods
Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol
Staying hydrated and managing daily stress
2. Medications
Acid-reducing medicines to protect the stomach lining
Antibiotics if H. pylori infection is found
3. Procedures and Follow-Up Care
Endoscopic polyp removal during your upper endoscopy
Surveillance endoscopy to check for new polyps or changes over time
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
What are gastric polyps?
Gastric polyps are small growths on the stomach lining. Most are non-cancerous, but some can become serious if left untreated.
How are they found?
Most gastric polyps are discovered during an upper endoscopy, even if you have no symptoms.
Are gastric polyps harmful?
Many gastric polyps are harmless. However, certain types may carry a small risk of turning into cancer if left untreated.
What is the ICD-10 code for gastric polyp?
The standard ICD-10 code for a gastric polyp is K31.7, used for documentation and billing.
How often should I be screened?
Dr. Scott may recommend a follow-up endoscopy every 1 to 3 years, depending on your initial findings and individual risk factors.
Can my diet help prevent polyps?
Yes. A balanced diet that's low in processed foods, spicy or fatty items, and alcohol may help reduce your risk of developing gastric polyps.
