ACP Best practice no 159. Examination of large intestine resection specimens

Macroscopic examination of large intestinal resection specimens by the surgical pathologist provides important diagnostic and prognostic information. This review summarises current recommended protocols and evidence based guidelines for gross description, dissection, and histological block selection in both neoplastic and non-neoplastic colorectal disease. Specific lesions discussed include colorectal cancer, polypectomies and polyposis syndromes, and inflammatory bowel disease. Microscopic examination is briefly described, with emphasis on certain pitfalls that might be encountered in routine practice. A section covering special techniques for the investigation of occult bleeding is included.