Colon Cancer Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Colon Cancer, including details on causes, treatment, symptoms.

The postoperative surveillance of patients with colon cancer and rectal cancer.

Abir F, Alva S, Longo WE, Audiso R, Virgo KS, Johnson FE

Department of Surgery, Yale School of Medicine, P.O. Box 208062, New Haven, CT 06520-8062, USA.

BACKGROUND: Colon cancer is relatively common; however, the results of treatment have marginally improved over the last half century. Though about 85% of patients have colorectal tumors resected with curative intent, a significant number of these patients will eventually die from cancer. As a result, many clinicians have advocated intensive follow-up in such patients as an attempt to increase survival. DATA SOURCES: A review of the literature focusing on studies that have specifically addressed postoperative surveillance programs in patients with colorectal cancer was conducted. Only studies with level A evidence were included. Further references were obtained through cross-referencing the bibliography cited in each work. CONCLUSION: One of the six prospective randomized studies demonstrated a statistically significant survival benefit. Undoubtedly, survival benefits can be shown with a well-designed evidence-based follow-up strategy. However, well-designed large prospective multi-institutional randomized studies are needed to establish a consensus for follow-up.

Published 13 June 2006 in Am J Surg, 192(1): 100-8.
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