Surveillance for dysplasia in patients with inflammatory bowel disease: an updated national survey of colonoscopic practice in New Zealand

Abstract

Background: Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) undergo surveillance for an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Advances in endoscopy have rendered most previously invisible dysplasia visible, leading to changes in guidelines around surveillance and management of dysplasia. This study aims to assess New Zealand endoscopists' (i) understanding of current guidelines, (ii) uptake of advanced techniques and (iii) management of dysplasia.

Methods: A digital survey of New Zealand endoscopists was undertaken. Invitations were sent to members of New Zealand gastroenterology and surgical societies. Questions were asked regarding demographics, surveillance interval, risk stratification, endoscopic technique and dysplasia management.

Results: Fifty of the 322 invitees completed the survey (15.5%). Over 80% used techniques meeting the guideline recommendations. The majority (77%) of endoscopists take random biopsies in addition to targeted. Endoscopically resectable polypoid low-grade dysplasia was typically managed with surveillance (93%) but this dropped to less than half for high-grade dysplasia and less than a third for non-polypoid high-grade dysplasia (inconsistent with guidelines).

Conclusions: Current New Zealand endoscopists' practice appears to be aligned with international guidelines in terms of screening interval, risk stratification and technique. However, New Zealand endoscopists are less likely to offer a patient surveillance for endoscopically resectable dysplasia.