[Future organisation of colorectal cancer surgery in Denmark]

Abstract

We recommend that in the future, surgery for colorectal cancer (CRC) in Denmark should be done in 10 to 15 colorectal units with an uptake zone of 350,000-500,000 citizens each. These units should perform both acute and elective CRC surgery and acute surgical treatment of other intestinal diseases. In each unit, a senior colorectal surgeon should be available on a 24-hour shift, and there should be sufficient diagnostic and theatre capacity to ensure optimal treatment levels. A stoma clinic should be available Monday to Friday. The units should perform research according to international standards. Each senior surgeon should document his or her relevant continuing surgical education. A national postgraduate education should be ensured to all members of the multidisciplinary team according to the standards in force in Great Britain. The treatment of primary advanced T4 tumors and local recurrence should be done in only one to two colorectal units in Denmark, and the treatment of local recurrence with spread to the pelvis should be done in only one unit in Denmark.