Appropriateness of colonoscopy at a tertiary care centre - are we overdoing gastrointestinal endoscopy?

Medicinski Glasnik : Official Publication of the Medical Association of Zenica-Doboj Canton, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Nerma ČustovićJasmina Redžepagić

Abstract

Aim To evaluate the pattern of indications and a spectrum of colonic pathology, and to determine appropriateness of indications for colonoscopy in order to improve patient selection for colonoscopy. Methods This retrospective study includes 294 patients who were referred to the Gastroenterology Department from a primary care physician in order to approach endoscopic examination. Study data included patients' anamnestic data (comorbidities, positive family history, performed radiological examinations) an indication for the procedure, and colonoscopy findings. Results Haematochezia was confirmed in 186 (63.26%), positive radiologic finding in183 (62.24%) and anaemia in 157 (53.40%) patients. Adenoma and colorectal carcinoma were detected in 40 (13.6%) and 53 (18%) patients, respectively. A significant association between haematochezia and colorectal neoplasm was confirmed (p=0.019), haematochezia and inflammatory bowel disease (p=0.027), and between radiological finding and colorectal neoplasm (p=0.018). There was no significant association between anaemia and any of the colonoscopic findings. According to EPAGE II criteria indications were appropriate in 187 (63.6%), uncertain in 67 (22.8%) and inappropriate in 40 (13.6%) patien...Continue Reading

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