Computed tomography-dominant surveillance strategies for colorectal cancer: Improving early detection of recurrence

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most prevalent cancers globally, with a high recurrence rate following curative surgery, especially within the first 3 to 5 years. Post-surgical follow-up plays a vital role in detecting local and distant recurrences, significantly influencing survival rates. However, despite established guidelines recommending surveillance strategies, discrepancies persist regarding the optimal surveillance modality and patient adherence to follow protocols. Sala-Miquel et al's study emphasize the superiority of computed tomography in detecting metastasis and recurrence, while also shedding light on the critical role of adherence to surveillance protocols in improving patient outcomes. This editorial discusses the implications of these findings for clinical practice, providing a comprehensive overview of the current landscape of CRC surveillance and the path forward for improving patient outcomes.