Surgery doesn't cure FAP. Polyps can continue to form in the remaining or reconstructed parts of your colon, stomach and small intestine. Depending on the number and size of the polyps, having them removed endoscopically may not be enough to reduce your risk of cancer. You may need additional surgery.

You will need regular screening — and treatment if needed — for the complications of familial adenomatous polyposis that can develop after colorectal surgery. Depending on your history and the type of surgery you had, screening may include:

• Sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy
• Upper endoscopy
• Thyroid ultrasound
• CT or MRI to screen for desmoid tumors

Depending on your screening results, your doctor may additional treatments for the following issues:

• Duodenal polyps and periampullary polyps. Your doctor may recommend surgery to remove the upper part of the small intestine (duodenum and ampulla) because these types of polyps can progress to cancer.
• Desmoid tumors. You may be given a combination of medications, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, anti-estrogen and chemotherapy. In some cases, you may need surgery.
• Osteomas. Doctors may remove these noncancerous bone tumors for pain relief or cosmetic reasons.