A survey of post-polypectomy colonoscopy surveillance knowledge among general practitioners.

Abstract Background Screening has been shown to be effective in reducing CRC incidence and mortality. Adherence to the guidelines of surveillance after polypectomy is considered key. In most countries including Poland general practitioners (GPs) are responsible for referring patients for surveillance colonoscopy. The aim of the study was to examine the knowledge of post-polypectomy surveillance among GPs in Poland. Methods We have designed five scenarios of post-polypectomy surveillance based on European guidelines adapted by the Polish Society of Gastroenterology. The scenarios described different risk groups based on the characteristics of the removed polyps requiring different time intervals of surveillance colonoscopy. They were supplemented with basic demographic data of the surveyed GP. The questionnaire was carried out by surveyors during a national congress of GPs. Results A total of 340 questionnaires were filled by GPs. None of the surveyed doctors gave correct answers in all questions. The knowledge of post-polypectomy surveillance is very unsatisfactory (correct answers 1.2%-55.0%). One year surveillance interval was the most commonly chosen interval regardless risk groups based on the characteristics of the removed polyps. In 4 of 5 scenarios the surveillance overuse ranged 42.1%-98.5%. In a high risk group scenario surveillance was underused in 45.0%. Conclusions Post-polypectomy surveillance schemes are not known to GPs with a significant trend towards overuse. Strict adherence to guidelines should be pursued to include written recommendation on surveillance program in the final endoscopy report. Efforts should be made by public health policy makers to increase knowledge of surveillance schemes among GPs.