Large bowel obstruction

Colorectal cancer patients are monitored clinically and radiologically by computed tomography for at least 5 years. Colonoscopy is required to exclude synchronous lesions missed at surgery. Metachronous lesions are identified by surveillance colonoscopy.

No formal monitoring is necessary for patients following resection of a sigmoid or caecal volvulus or diverticular stricture if the colon has been confirmed to be clear by colonoscopy.