[Degenerative colorectal polyps]

In 23 patients with malignant colorectal polyps we reviewed the frequency of recurrence. In the group without subsequent local resection, 8 of 11 patients were without recurrent tumour after 2.7 (0.8-4.1) years, in the group with subsequent local or conventional colon resection, 10 of 12 patients after 5.3 (0.8-9.0) years. None of the patients showed any evidence of residual tumour or lymph node metastasis. All recurrent tumours (2 x carcinoma, 3 x benign polyps) could be resected curatively. There was no difference in recurrence in both groups. For safe histopathological examination of malignant colorectal polypi in respect of depth of invasion, free resection margins and lymphatic vessel invasion, intraoperative fixation and marking must be performed, since local recurrence was seen after more than 5 years, long-term follow up is necessary.