Lynch syndrome

Treatment

If you've been diagnosed with Lynch syndrome or are at risk of the disorder, Mayo Clinic specialists will develop a screening program to help reduce your cancer risk as much as possible. Many cancer-prevention strategies exist, and your doctors will design an individualized program that provides you with the best possible care while attempting to limit the number of procedures you undergo.

Screening and polyp removal

Having an annual colonoscopy with polyp management can prevent colorectal cancer for people with Lynch syndrome. At Mayo Clinic, colonoscopy polyp screening is enhanced with the use of narrow band imaging, which uses bands of light to improve visibility, and chromoendoscopy, which involves the use of stains or dyes for better visibility. Using one or both of these techniques improves the chances polyps will be detected during colonoscopy.

Complete removal of the flat polyps typical of Lynch syndrome can be technically difficult. Mayo's advanced endoscopy team can remove larger, flat polyps in one complete piece with endoscopic mucosal resection.

Surgery

For people with Lynch syndrome who have developed colon cancer, Mayo Clinic specialists usually recommend subtotal colectomy, which removes the entire colon but retains the rectum. Mayo Clinic surgeons typically remove the entire colon using minimally invasive (laparoscopic) techniques and nerve-sparing techniques to help preserve urinary and sexual function. Laparoscopic surgery usually involves less pain, a shorter hospital stay and faster recovery.

Risk-reducing subtotal colectomy may be considered in people who have polyps or are unwilling or unable to undergo regular screening exams.

Read more about the treatment of Lynch syndrome.