[Unnecessary surgery for benign colorectal polyps]

Colorectal cancer usually starts as a benign polyp. Endoscopic removal of these polyps reduces the risk of death from colorectal cancer. Some of the colorectal polyps are seen as 'too complex for endoscopic removal' and these polyps can be surgically resected. However, surgical resection is associated with higher morbidity and mortality. We have various advanced endoscopic techniques at our disposal for removing benign polyps these days, even if they are complex. The number of surgical resections of benign polyps is nevertheless increasing in the Netherlands, partly as a result of the introduction of population screening for colorectal cancer. Only a small proportion of patients with complex polyps is referred to a centre of expertise to undergo advanced endoscopic resection. We believe that regional multidisciplinary expert panels can improve the quality of care for patients with complex polyps and reduce the number of unnecessary surgical resections.