The podcast offers a high-yield review for colorectal surgeons preparing for the oral board exam. It covers the diagnostic process for polyps and the management of familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) syndrome. The hosts discuss the limitations of existing resources and introduce a new educational tool. They also explore the surgical approach for attenuated FAP and the importance of genetic testing and counseling.
Genetic counseling and thorough clinical examination are crucial in the diagnosis and management of Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) to rule out extra-colonic manifestations and determine the appropriate treatment option.
Rectal polyp burden and patient preferences play a key role in selecting the surgical intervention for FAP, with options ranging from endoscopic surveillance to J-Pouch surgery or total proctocolectomy with permanent ileostomy.
Deep dives
Diagnosing and Managing Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP)
A 30-year-old female presents with innumerable adenomatous polyps throughout the colon, consistent with tubular adenoma. The patient is asymptomatic, except for progressive fatigue and exertional shortness of breath. A workup is essential to confirm the diagnosis of FAP and assess the extent and distribution of polyps. Recommendations include reviewing the colonoscopy report, performing a thorough clinical examination, and considering additional tests like upper endoscopy, thyroid ultrasound, ophthalmologic exam, and dental exam to rule out extra-colonic manifestations. Treatment options discussed include prophylactic total abdominal colectomy, ileorectal anastomosis, restorative proctocolectomy, or total proctectomy with permanent ileostomy. Surveillance and genetic counseling for the patient and first-degree relatives are also recommended.
Management of Rectal Polyps and Surgical Options
Determining the rectal polyp burden is crucial for selecting the appropriate surgical intervention. If the patient has less than 20-30 rectal polyps, the rectum may be preserved with endoscopic surveillance. This option minimally impacts fertility, sexual and urinary functions. Alternatively, a J-Pouch surgery or total proctocolectomy with permanent ileostomy can be considered. The benefits and potential drawbacks of each procedure are explained, including the frequency of bowel movements, risk of fecal incontinence, surveillance needs, and impact on overall quality of life.
Intra-abdominal Desmoid Tumors and Management
Intra-abdominal desmoid tumors can cause small bowel obstruction and may require urgent intervention. Initial management involves ensuring IV access, fluid resuscitation, and decompression with an NG tube. Medical treatment with medications like sulindac can be initiated, while surgery is generally reserved as a last resort for severe cases. Regular monitoring and follow-up are essential due to the potential clinical devastation caused by desmoid disease, which is the second leading cause of death in FAP patients.
Attenuated FAP and Individualized Surgical Approach
If the initial colonoscopy reveals fewer than 100 polyps, the patient may have an attenuated form of FAP or another condition, such as MYH-associated polyposis. Considering patient preferences and circumstances becomes vital in the management of lower polyp burden cases. Delaying surgery may be an option for women who wish to have children or obese patients aiming to lose weight for better surgical outcomes. Proper evaluation and genetic counseling for both the patient and their first-degree relatives are essential in attenuated FAP cases.
Our Colorectal Surgery Oral Board Audio Review includes 51 high-yield scenarios designed for Colorectal Surgeons by Colorectal Surgeons.
Scenarios are 5 to 7 minutes long and include a variety of tactics and styles. If you are able to achieve this level of performance in your preparation you are sure to pass the oral exam with flying colors. The second part introduces high-yield commentary to each scenario. This commentary includes tips and tricks to help you dominate the most challenging scenarios in addition to practical, easy-to-understand teaching that covers the most confusing topics we face as colorectal surgeons. We are confident you will find this unique, dual format approach a highly effective way to prepare for the test.