Abstract
Colonoscopy is the reference standard for the detection of polyps and colorectal cancer (CRC). If during colonoscopy, all colorectal lesions are detected and completely removed, this individual will be long-term protected from CRC. The quality of the colonoscopy procedure is essential for an optimal protective effect. Recently published data of negative colonoscopies within the Polish Colonoscopy Screening Program, with a maximum follow-up of 17.4 years, demonstrated that high-quality colonoscopy was associated with a lower CRC incidence and mortality compared to low-quality colonoscopy. Colonoscopy quality was defined by completeness of colonoscopy, quality of the bowel preparation and number of detected colorectal lesions. These results suggest that the interval after a negative colonoscopy for the next screening might be safely prolonged, preventing unnecessary costs and risks for the patient. The quality of the initial colonoscopy is essential and a high quality will be fundamental for surveillance guidelines in the near future.
| Translated title of the contribution | How important is the quality of colonoscopy, considering the population screening for colorectal cancer? |
|---|---|
| Original language | Dutch |
| Journal | Nederlands Tijdschrift voor Geneeskunde |
| Volume | 164 |
| Publication status | Published - 12 May 2021 |