American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

What is the recommended interval for postoperative colonoscopy after colorectal cancer resection?

1. Every year for the first 3 years, then every 5 years

2. Only once after the surgery

3. Every 6 months for 5 years

4. Every 2 years indefinitely

The correct answer is: Every year for the first 3 years, then every 5 years

The recommended interval for postoperative colonoscopy after colorectal cancer resection is every year for the first three years, followed by every five years thereafter. This approach is based on clinical guidelines that take into consideration the risk of recurrence and the ability to detect new or missed lesions in the colon. In the initial years following surgery, the risk of recurrence of colorectal cancer is higher, which is why more frequent surveillance through annual colonoscopies is advised. Early detection of recurrence can significantly impact treatment options and outcomes. After the first three years, the risk decreases, allowing for a less frequent monitoring schedule of every five years. Other suggested intervals for colonoscopy may not provide adequate surveillance based on the recurrence patterns observed in patients who have undergone colorectal cancer resection.