Surveillance after colorectal polypectomy; comparison between Japan and U.S

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Oncology
• Endoscopic Procedures

Background:

• Advances in endoscopic diagnosis and techniques facilitate early colorectal cancer detection and treatment.
• Despite ongoing studies like the Japan Polyp Study, Japan lacks a standardized strategy for post-polypectomy colonoscopic surveillance.
• Current surveillance practices in Japan are determined individually by institutions or gastroenterologists.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze current post-polypectomy colonoscopic surveillance practices in Japan.
• To compare Japanese surveillance recommendations with those of the U.S. and the U.S. Multisociety Task Force on colorectal Cancer.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire survey was conducted among 132 doctors specializing in digestive organ diseases across multiple institutions in Japan.
• Data collected were compared with existing guidelines and recommendations from the U.S. Multisociety Task Force on colorectal Cancer.

Main Results:

• A majority of Japanese doctors recommend surveillance intervals of approximately one year, irrespective of polyp type.
• Japanese doctors generally recommend more frequent post-polypectomy surveillance compared to the U.S. Multisociety Task Force recommendations.
• Significant variations in surveillance frequency for hyperplastic polyps were observed based on physician experience (1-5 years vs. >6 years).

Conclusions:

• Surveillance intervals after colon polyp removal show considerable variation among Japanese physicians.
• Establishing a consensus on surveillance programs is essential to standardize post-polypectomy colonoscopic surveillance strategies in Japan.
• Standardization is needed to ensure consistent and effective follow-up care for patients who have undergone polyp removal.