Implementation of Synoptic Reporting for Endoscopic Localization of Complex Colorectal Neoplasms.

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Medical Informatics
• Health Services Research

Background:

• High rates of repeat preoperative colonoscopies occur due to inadequate documentation of colorectal neoplasms during index colonoscopies.
• National consensus recommendations for endoscopic localization and synoptic reporting templates were developed to address this issue.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report on the implementation and endoscopist perceptions of an electronic synoptic reporting template designed to enhance colorectal lesion marking.
• To evaluate the template's impact on communication and its perceived ability to reduce repeat preoperative colonoscopy rates.

Main Methods:

• An electronic synoptic reporting template was implemented within an endoscopy reporting system.
• An infographic education campaign was conducted, followed by an email-based interview with regional endoscopists.
• Qualitative and quantitative data were synthesized using thematic analysis and mixed-methods triangulation.

Main Results:

• 54% of endoscopists participated in the interview; 50% used the synoptic template.
• Users found the template functional (intuitiveness: 3.56/5, efficiency: 3.7/5) and impactful (credible: 4.22/5, informative: 4.21/5).
• Limited uptake was attributed to lack of awareness (42.9%) and preference for narrative text (17.9%).

Conclusions:

• Endoscopists perceived the synoptic template as a valuable tool for improving communication and potentially decreasing repeat preoperative colonoscopies.
• Provider awareness is a significant barrier to template uptake, necessitating further educational initiatives.
• Enhanced adoption of synoptic reporting can optimize colorectal cancer surveillance and management.