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Tubulovillous Adenomas Doctor - Dr. Scott Liu
Scott, who is a board-certified gastroenterologist at GastroDoxs in Houston, is an expert in diagnosis and treatment of tubulovillous adenomas-colon polyps with tubular and villous histories. This whole package consists of professional polyp hysterectomy, tailored individual care plans and preventive advice to encourage your colon health in its best condition!
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.
What Is a Tubulovillous Adenomas?
Tubulovillous adenoma of the colon is a polyp which passes through both the tubular(tube-like) and villous(finger-like) features of growth. Although they are not cancerous initially, they have a greater likelihood of developing into colon cancer with time in case of not being treated.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Age over 50 years
Family history of colon polyps or colon cancer
Long-term inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease)
Diet low in fiber and high in red or processed meats
Lack of regular physical activity
Smoking or heavy alcohol use
Signs and Symptoms
Often none in early stages
Bleeding from the rectum
Blood in the stool
Constipation or diarrhea
Abdominal cramps or discomfort
Unexplained weight loss
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Tubulovillous Adenomas?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He examines your own and family history on polyps or colon cancer, gastrointestinal symptoms (blood in stool, bowel habits alteration, discomfort), and inflammatory bowel disease.
Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy is carried out on a high resolution colonoscope in order to provide a view of the colon as a whole. Possible identification of any polyps, their measurement, and their careful removal.
Laboratory Tests
Blood laboratory analysis of anemia (due to persistent haemolysis) and inflammatory cells. To eliminate the possibility of infection or occult blood, stool tests can be performed.
Pathology Confirmation
Any tissue that is removed is forwarded to a pathology lab. Microscopic examination identifies polyp types as either tubular, villous, or tubulovillous and examines the presence of dysplasia or early cancer.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of treatment options for tubulovillous adenomas of the colon.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Increase intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Limit red and processed meats
Engage in at least 30 minutes of daily physical activity
Maintain a healthy weight
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption
2. Medications
Low-dose aspirin or similar agents to reduce polyp risk
Calcium or vitamin D supplements when indicated
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Polypectomy during colonoscopy for routine removal
Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR) for larger lesions
Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD) for complex or flat polyps
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 is tubulovillous adenoma?
Tubulovillous adenoma is a type of colon polyp which consists of a mixture of tube-shaped (tubular) and finger-like (villous) components. Although it is not cancerous, at least not at the first stages, it may turn into cancer.
Tubulovillous adenoma: how risky is it?
It is a more threatening risk of malignancy to this type of polyp as compared to simple tubular polyps, particularly where high-grade dysplasia is involved.
What is the treatment of high-grade dysplasia in a polyp?
High-grade dysplasia polyps are usually excised during the colonoscopy with the use of such procedures as polypectomy, EMR, and ESD and regular monitoring.
What is the recommended frequency of a follow-up colonoscopy?
The majority of patients who had a tubulovillous adenoma that was removed use a follow-up colonoscopy 3 to 5 years after the initial surgery based on the characteristics of polyps and their individual risk factors.
Is it possible to eliminate the formation of new polyps?
Yes. A nutritious high-fiber diet, reduced intake of red and processed meat, daily exercise, healthy body weight, avoidance of tobacco use and excessive alcohol use can all save your risk.
