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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Who Needs A Colonoscopy?

I am 80 yrs. old, do I still need a colonoscopy, also I had a benign tumor in the sigmoid part of the colon & had 12 of the colon removed, am I at a higher risk of getting colon cancer ? that was 20 yrs. ago, I have been fine ever since than, I had a colonoscopy 5 yrs. ago & had no problems.
Mon, 22 Jan 2018
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hello,
You are in a very unique position. According to the current guidelines, we start a colonoscopy screening at age 50 and repeat it every 10 years, indefinitely. When people have multiple polyps removed, we usually recommend that they have a colonoscopy every 3 years after that. Data shows us that over age 80, patients receive less benefit from frequent colonoscopies. Because you have such a unique situation, you've had a tumor and a portion of your colon removed, there are no specific guidelines. The GI doctor who previously treated you would be able to specifically answer your questions. Putting together all of your information, it is prudent that you see your GI doctor and discuss at least one more colonoscopy, or even a different type of test to make sure you are healthy.
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Who Needs A Colonoscopy?

Hello, You are in a very unique position. According to the current guidelines, we start a colonoscopy screening at age 50 and repeat it every 10 years, indefinitely. When people have multiple polyps removed, we usually recommend that they have a colonoscopy every 3 years after that. Data shows us that over age 80, patients receive less benefit from frequent colonoscopies. Because you have such a unique situation, you ve had a tumor and a portion of your colon removed, there are no specific guidelines. The GI doctor who previously treated you would be able to specifically answer your questions. Putting together all of your information, it is prudent that you see your GI doctor and discuss at least one more colonoscopy, or even a different type of test to make sure you are healthy.