13
Table 12. Early-Stage Rectal Cancer Follow Up (summary)
Basic Limited Enhanced Maximal
Medical history,
Physical exam
(including
DRE) and
CEA
Every 6
months
minimum 3
yrs. (CEA if
available)
Every 6 months for 3–5yrs (High risk q3–6 months
for 5yrs)
Imaging CXR and
Abdomino-
Pelvic
Ultrasound
twice in the
first 3 yrs
CT chest,
abdomen and
pelvis twice
in the first
3 yrs (High
risk q6–12
months)
CT chest, abdomen and pelvis
annually for 3 yrs (High risk
q6–12 months)
Surveillance
Colonoscopy
Rectosigmoidoscopy or
Colonoscopy once in the first
1–2 yrs aer surgery (if available)
Colonoscopy 1 year aer surgery
then every 5 years or earlier as
clinically indicated up to 75 years
of age.
Standard Risk
but did not
receive Pelvic
Radiation
Digital rectal exam or
Rectosigmoidoscopy every 6
months for 3 years (if available)
Rectosigmoidoscopy every 6
months for 2–5 years.
Incomplete
Diagnostic
Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy,
if available, or
barium enema,
should be done
as soon as
reasonable aer
completion
of adjuvant
therapy and
not necessarily
at the 1-year
time point
Colonoscopy should be done as soon as reasonable
aer completion of adjuvant therapy and not
necessarily at the 1-year time point
