Variability in Communication and Reporting Practices Between Gastroenterologists and General Surgeons Contributes to...

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology and General Surgery
• Qualitative Health Research
• Surgical Oncology

Background:

• Preoperative endoscopy is frequently repeated before planned colorectal resections, though reasons are unclear.
• Repeat procedures incur delays, increased costs, and patient discomfort, highlighting a need to understand practice variations.

Discussion:

• Thematic analysis of interviews with endoscopists revealed communication patterns, feedback mechanisms, and interprofessional trust as key factors influencing repeat endoscopy decisions.
• Ambiguous documentation, inconsistent lesion localization techniques (e.g., tattooing), and negative interprofessional experiences significantly contribute to the decision for repeat procedures.

Key Insights:

• Suboptimal endoscopic reporting creates communication gaps, increasing the likelihood of unnecessary repeat preoperative lower endoscopy.
• Lack of consistent feedback and mutual trust between specialists are significant drivers for repeating procedures.
• Inconsistent tattooing practices raise concerns for accurate intraoperative lesion localization.

Outlook:

• Implementing standardized guidelines and improving endoscopic reporting are crucial for managing colorectal lesions effectively.
• Fostering collaborative work environments through joint educational initiatives can enhance communication and reduce redundant procedures.
• Further research is needed to assess the transferability of these findings to healthcare systems outside Canada.