Our approach
Not all polyps require surgery.
We assess the type, size, and location of the polyp, the biopsy results (if available), and the risk of malignant transformation. If the polyp cannot be safely removed endoscopically or malignancy is suspected, surgical treatment is recommended.
What are small bowel polyps?
A polyp is a localized overgrowth of the mucous membrane of the small bowel.
The most common types are:
- adenomatous polyps
- hamartomatous polyps
- hyperplastic polyps
- inflammatory polyps
Polyps may occur on their own or as part of hereditary syndromes (familial adenomatous polyposis, Peutz–Jeghers syndrome, and others).
Why do polyps develop?
Causes may include:
- hereditary genetic syndromes
- chronic inflammatory bowel diseases
- genetic mutations
- age
In many patients, the exact cause cannot be determined.
Symptoms
Most polyps cause no symptoms.
Large lesions may cause:
- abdominal pain
- hidden or visible intestinal bleeding
- anemia
- intussusception
- bowel obstruction
- weight loss
When to see a doctor
A consultation is recommended if:
- a small bowel polyp has been found
- the polyp is large
- there are signs of dysplasia or malignant transformation is suspected
- intestinal bleeding has occurred
- the polyp has caused intussusception or bowel obstruction
- the optimal treatment strategy needs to be determined
How is the diagnosis made?
The following are used to establish the diagnosis:
- consultation with a surgeon
- laboratory tests
- computed tomography
- magnetic resonance imaging
- capsule endoscopy
- balloon enteroscopy
- biopsy or histological examination after removal of the polyp
How is it treated?
The treatment strategy depends on the type, size, and location of the polyp.
Options may include:
- follow-up monitoring
- endoscopic removal (when technically feasible)
- segmental resection of the small bowel
- laparoscopic surgical treatment
- open operations for large or multiple polyps
Surgical treatment
At MSI we perform:
- segmental resection of the small bowel
- laparoscopic operations
- open operations for difficult locations or large polyps
- reconstruction of bowel continuity
- mandatory histological examination of the removed tissue
The goal of treatment is complete removal of the polyp while preserving as much healthy small bowel as possible.
Recovery after treatment
After surgery, modern ERAS protocols are used to support fast recovery of bowel function and a shorter hospital stay.
Further follow-up is determined by the histology results and, if necessary, includes regular endoscopic monitoring.
Why choose MSI
- Experience in treating rare small bowel conditions
- An organ-preserving approach
- Modern laparoscopic surgery
- Multidisciplinary treatment planning
- Adherence to international guidelines
- Enhanced recovery protocols (ERAS)
Frequently Asked Questions
No. The strategy depends on the type and size of the polyp and the risk of malignant transformation. Some small polyps can be monitored.
Yes. Adenomatous polyps carry the highest risk, especially when dysplasia is present, so they require timely treatment.
In some cases, yes. If the polyp can be reached for endoscopic removal and this is safe, surgery may not be needed.
In most cases, yes. The choice of approach depends on the location and size of the polyp and the expected extent of the procedure.
The outlook is favorable. After complete removal of the polyp, most patients recover fully. For hereditary syndromes or adenomatous polyps, regular endoscopic follow-up may be recommended.