Effect of implementing a regional referral network on surgical referral rate of benign polyps found during a colorectal cancer screening program: A population-based study

Summary Introduction Surgical management is too often performed as the first-line treatment for large, benign colorectal polyps. We report the management of benign lesions detected by organised colorectal cancer (CRC) screening. Methods Population-based study in 2012, 2016, and 2017, analyzing the evolution of surgical management of benign polyps of ≥ 2 cm diameter discovered in the context of organised CRC screening after the implementation of a regional referral network for the management of superficial colorectal lesions. Results A total of 1571 patients underwent colonoscopy following a positive test during the study period, among which 981 colonoscopies yielded at least one lesion. The adenoma detection rate was lower in 2012 (Guaiac test) than in 2016 and 2017 (fecal immunochemical test) (40% vs. 60% vs. 57%, P  Conclusion The establishment of a regional referral network for the management of large colorectal polyps reduces the rate of surgical management of such lesions.