Watson MM, Watson DC, Maddern GJ, Wichmann MW. Quality of rural colonoscopy outperforms key performance indicators in a multi-centre prospective clinical study.
ANZ J Surg 2023;
93:528-533. [PMID:
36225114 DOI:
10.1111/ans.18072]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND
High-quality colonoscopy is vital for the detection and removal of adenomatous polyps and early diagnosis of colorectal cancer. The aim of this study was to prospectively assess the quality and safety of colonoscopies performed in the non-metropolitan setting. Key performance indicators measured include completion, polypectomy and adenoma/serrated polyp detection rates, rate of adequate bowel preparation, withdrawal time and complications.
METHODS
Prospective data collection for all colonoscopies performed over a one-year period in seven non-metropolitan South Australian hospitals. Two general surgeons and twelve registrars working in rural South Australian hospitals (Mount Gambier, Millicent, Naracoorte, Port Lincoln, Port Augusta, Whyalla and Berri) contributed to this study.
RESULTS
In total 3497 colonoscopies were analysed. Complete colonoscopy was achieved in 96.1%. The adenoma detection and serrated polyp detection rates were 25.6% and 5.4% respectively. Cancer was detected in 71 patients (2%). Colonic perforation occurred in five patients (0.1%). There was no procedure-related mortality.
CONCLUSIONS
Colonoscopy performed in the non-metropolitan Australian setting outperforms key performance indicators set by national institutions. This is the first Australian prospective multi-centre study investigating the quality and safety of endoscopic procedures.
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