Table 3 Surveillance protocol after radical anterior resection for rectal cancer (2001‑2008)
Procedure | For years 1‑2 | For years 3‑5 |
|---|---|---|
Physical examination, including the rectal | Every 3‑4 months | Every 6 months |
CEA | Every 3‑4 months | Every 6 months |
Chest X-ray | Every 12 months | |
Abdominal ultrasound or CT of the abdominal cavity | Every 4 months | Every 6 months |
CT or MRI of the pelvis | Up to 1‑2 examinations during observation | |
Gastrointestinal endoscopy (sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy) | Every 12 months | |