American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

What is the recommended postpolypectomy surveillance colonoscopy interval for patients with large (≥10 mm) sessile serrated polyps?

1. 1 year

2. 3 years

3. 5 years

4. 10 years

The correct answer is: 3 years

The recommended postpolypectomy surveillance colonoscopy interval for patients with large (≥10 mm) sessile serrated polyps is every 3 years. This recommendation is based on the understanding that sessile serrated polyps, particularly those that are large, have a higher potential for malignant transformation compared to smaller polyps. The 3-year interval allows for closer monitoring to ensure that any progression towards colorectal cancer can be addressed promptly. Research and guidelines from gastroenterological societies emphasize the importance of timely surveillance in managing the risk associated with these types of polyps. Monitoring at this interval is intended to both reduce the risk of colorectal cancer and ensure that if new polyps develop or existing polyps have progressed, they can be identified and treated efficiently. Longer intervals, such as 5 or 10 years, may not be appropriate given the increased risk associated with larger sessile serrated polyps, and an annual surveillance may be excessive, which could subject patients to unnecessary procedures and healthcare costs. Therefore, the 3-year recommendation strikes a balance between effective monitoring and practicality in clinical practice.