Japanese researchers developed a computer-assisted diagnostic system that can identify and analyze polyps found during a colonoscopy in under a second.
Here's what you should know:
1. The system was tested in a prospective trial.
2. The system analyzes an endocytoscopic image against 30,000-plus endocytoscopic images to predict lesion pathology.
3. Preliminary studies demonstrated the system's feasibility.
Yokohama, Japan-based Showa University's Yuichi Mori, MD, PhD, conducted a prospective study with 250 men and women who had colorectal polyps detected through endocytoscopy. The system assessed 306 polyps with 94 percent sensitivity, 79 percent specificity and 86 percent accuracy. The study has yet to be published.
Researchers concluded, "The most remarkable breakthrough with this system is that artificial intelligence enables real-time optical biopsy of colorectal polyps during colonoscopy, regardless of the endoscopists' skill. This allows the complete resection of adenomatous polyps and prevents unnecessary polypectomy of nonneoplastic polyps."
Researchers presented the study at the 25th UEG Week Barcelona taking place in Barcelona, Spain from Oct. 28 to Nov. 1.