Inclusion of a Society-Endorsed Practice Guideline in Computed Tomography Reports Improves Postdiverticulitis Colonoscopy Adherence.

Abstract

The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) recommends a follow-up colonoscopy within 6-8 weeks of an episode of complicated diverticulitis or the first episode of uncomplicated diverticulitis if no colonoscopy had been performed within the prior year to rule-out colorectal cancer. Available data suggest that adherence to this recommendation is suboptimal. We conducted a pre/post intervention study to determine whether inclusion of the AGA practice guideline in the diagnostic CT reports increased post-diverticulitis colonoscopy rates. Post-diverticulitis colonoscopy order and completion rates were significantly higher in the intervention group. Adherence was highest among individuals whose CT reports included the AGA recommendation. Inclusion of a guideline-based recommendation in the diagnostic CT report increases post-diverticulitis colonoscopy adherence rates. The intervention is cheap, easy to implement and amenable to widespread dissemination.