Surveillance Guidelines
| Evaluation | Recommendation | Recommended Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Physical exam, history, and CEA | A medical history and physical examination along with the laboratory test of CEA should be performed | Every 6 months for 5 years |
| Abdominal imaging | Abdominal CT scan is preferred or US if CT is difficult to access | Annually for 3 years |
| Pelvic imaging | Pelvic CT scan is recommended if the primary tumour was located in the rectum or US if CT is difficult to access | Annually for 3 years |
| Chest imaging | Chest CT scan is recommended or CXR if CT is difficult to access | Annually for 3 years |
| Colonoscopy |
Surveillance colonoscopy is recommended |
At 1 year following surgery; the frequency of subsequent surveillance colonoscopies should be dictated by the findings of the previous one, but generally should be performed every 5 years, if the findings of the previous one are normal |
| *Sigmoidoscopy | Surveillance for rectal cancer treated without radiation | Every 6 months for 5 years |
