ABSTRACT
The large intestine begins at the ileocaecal valve and extends to the anus. It is divided into the caecum, ascending colon, hepatic flexure, transverse colon with attached greater omentum, splenic flexure, descending colon, sigmoid colon and rectum. The blood supply of the large intestine from the caecum to the distal transverse colon is derived from branches of the superior mesenteric artery and from the inferior mesenteric artery and its branches more distally. Metaplastic or hyperplastic polyps are common and are generally considered benign. Recently certain subtypes have been recognised to have malignant potential. Adenomatous polyps are the most common polyps with malignant potential. The risk of malignancy is dependent on histology, morphology and size. After successful endoscopic removal of polyps, there is a risk of further polyp development; however, the risk of subsequent development of colorectal cancer is low.
