Surgeon-initiated screening colonoscopy program based on SAGES and ASCRS recommendations in a general surgery practice

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to determine the utility of a screening colonoscopy program initiated by general surgeons in an academic center.

Methods: New patients presenting to three general surgeons who met screening colonoscopy indications were asked whether they had undergone colorectal cancer (CRC) screening. The patients who had not undergone CRC screening were offered screening colonoscopies or referred to their gastroenterologists.

Results: In the first 9-month period of the program, 200 patients who met the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons/American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons indications for CRC screening were asked whether they had undergone screenings. Only 46% (n = 92) reported any prior appropriate screenings. Of the patients who elected CRC screening by the surgeons, 55 underwent full colonoscopies (2 concurrently with hemorrhoidectomies), and 2 had flexible sigmoidoscopies. As a result of screening, 10 patients (18%) required treatment: 7 had polypectomies, 2 had partial colectomies, and 1 with an indication for surgery deferred treatment.

Conclusions: Most of the patients presenting to the general surgeon likely have not had CRC screening, and diligence in making appropriate recommendations should be routine. Colonoscopic findings requiring intervention are not insignificant.