A UK-wide analysis of nearly 16,000 IBD surveillance endoscopies performed in 2024 has identified opportunities to improve colorectal cancer detection in patients with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. The study, involving 4,669 endoscopists across approximately 65% of UK endoscopy units, found that polyp detection was associated with three factors: regular experience performing IBD examinations, more time allocated to procedures, and the use of dye to improve mucosal visibility.
The analysis also revealed that fewer than one in five endoscopists performed IBD surveillance examinations at least monthly, although this group carried out 57% of all procedures. Researchers suggest that more consistent pathways, dedicated procedure time, and greater access to experienced endoscopists could help improve the quality of surveillance.
However, the database did not include pathology results for removed polyps, so the study could not establish whether higher detection rates translated into fewer colorectal cancers. Further research is needed to determine whether these changes improve long-term cancer prevention.