Postoperative precautions and follow-up time for patients with colonic polyps

  Since most colon cancers evolve from colon polyps, many patients are concerned about how to prevent recurrence after surgery and the time point for follow-up after completing endoscopic treatment of colon polyps during hospitalization. The main factor in preventing recurrence of colon polyps is to improve the intrinsic environment of the colon. The first is to reduce the level of secondary bile acids in the intestinal lumen, which can be achieved by consuming less greasy food and spicy food that can stimulate the secretion and release of bile acids in daily life; the second is to protect the balance of intestinal microecology and stabilize the internal environment, which can be achieved by frequent supplementation of probiotics, such as drinks containing probiotics. In addition, Chinese medicine can also play a preventive role by improving the state of the intestinal tract and the province through the treatment of clearing heat and dampness, strengthening the spleen and benefiting the qi, but this requires more individualized medication through the four diagnoses. It is also recommended to avoid thick and spicy dietary habits.  As for the issue of colonoscopy follow-up for people with high risk of colon cancer. Since the most important factor in whether a colon polyp turns into colon cancer is the size of a single colon polyp, with a diameter greater than 1.0cm, it has a higher chance of malignancy. In general, patients with colon polyps of 1.0 cm or larger need to complete a review within 6-12 months and endoscopic treatment in the near future once colon polyps are detected.