A new study from the British COLO-DETECT trial shows how an AI-powered tool can improve the detection of potentially harmful polyps during colonoscopies. Researchers found that the GI Genius Intelligent Endoscopy Module (by Medtronic Inc.) helps doctors spot small and hard-to-detect polyps better than standard methods.
The study, published in The Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology, involved over 2,000 participants from 12 hospitals in England. Adults aged 18 and older underwent routine colonoscopies, either with the AI-assisted tool or standard equipment. Results revealed that the AI tool significantly increased the average number of adenomas detected per procedure and improved detection rates for small, flat, and sessile serrated polyps, which are often missed.
Professor Colin J. Rees from Newcastle University highlighted that missed polyps can lead to colorectal cancer after colonoscopies. Using AI tools like GI Genius could not only increase polyp detection but also reduce future cancer cases.
Key Findings:
- The AI-assisted group detected an average of 1.56 adenomas per procedure compared to 1.21 in the standard group.
- Adenomas were found in 56.6% of AI-assisted cases versus 48.4% with standard methods.
- Adverse events were rare and similar between the groups, with no serious issues linked to the AI tool.
Dr. Nabil M. Mansour from Baylor College of Medicine in the U.S. called the AI tool a breakthrough for detecting premalignant polyps. He mentioned that although AI colonoscopy is still growing in use, it shows promise for improving screening and reducing missed polyps, especially in average-risk patients.
The study suggests AI tools could transform colonoscopy practices, but researchers note that it may take years to confirm whether increased polyp detection translates into fewer cancer cases or deaths.
Source: medscape
