Identification and Predictive Analysis of Colorectal Polyps Using Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Abstract

Background: Colorectal polyps are mucosal growths in the colon and rectum that may progress to cancer if not removed early. Flexible sigmoidoscopy is a common diagnostic tool for detecting these polyps, particularly in symptomatic patients, though predictive factors in younger populations remain unclear. Objective: This study aims to analyze the characteristics of colorectal polyps diagnosed via flexible sigmoidoscopy and identify predictive factors for their presence. Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective study on 1004 patients who underwent sigmoidoscopy from August 2023 to February 2024 at Ghurki Trust & Teaching Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan. The study included data from 84 patients diagnosed with colorectal polyps. Analyzed variables were age, gender, polyp count, type (pedunculated or sessile), distribution, and indications for sigmoidoscopy (bleeding vs. other). Statistical analysis using SPSS version 15 included chi-square tests and odds ratios to identify significant associations. Results: Colorectal polyps were detected in 8.4% of patients, with a gender distribution of 7.9% in males and 8.4% in females. Sessile polyps predominated at 64.3%, and the majority of polyps were solitary (75%). Polyps primarily affected the rectum (53.6%) and were less frequently found in the sigmoid colon (21.4%), rectosigmoid junction (17.9%), and descending colon (7.1%). Significant predictors of polyp detection included age (45% in children vs. 6.5% in adults, p < 0.001) and indication for sigmoidoscopy (14% in cases of rectal bleeding vs. 3.3% for other reasons, p < 0.001). Gender was not a significant factor (p=0.467). Conclusion: Sigmoidoscopy effectively detects colorectal polyps, particularly in symptomatic children and those with rectal bleeding. This highlights the need for targeted screening to improve early detection and management. Further research is required to validate these findings and refine screening guidelines.