Artificial intelligence-assisted colonoscopy improves adenoma detection rates

Yes, artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted colonoscopy has been shown to improve adenoma detection rates (ADR). Adenoma detection is a critical measure in colonoscopy, as higher ADRs are directly linked to reduced colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence and mortality. Despite advancements, up to 20% of adenomas are still missed due to human limitations in visual detection.

A study conducted at Hallym University Dongtan Sacred Heart Hospital evaluated AI-assisted colonoscopy using the SmartEndo CADe system, a deep-learning tool that highlights potential polyps in real time through bounding boxes and auditory alerts. The study included 474 patients in the AI-assisted group and compared them with 474 patients undergoing standard colonoscopy. Propensity score matching ensured both groups were balanced for clinical and procedural characteristics.

The AI-assisted colonoscopy significantly improved ADR (35.9% vs. 26.4%, p=0.002), demonstrating its effectiveness in routine practice. It also increased the polyp detection rate (53.2% vs. 46.2%, p=0.038) and the mean adenomas per colonoscopy (0.69 vs. 0.43, p<0.001). AI systems were particularly beneficial for trainees, boosting their ADR from 27.2% to 51.5% (p=0.023). Additionally, AI-assisted colonoscopy proved valuable in detecting subtle, small, or flat lesions, even among high-performing endoscopists.

While AI improves detection, challenges such as false positives and increased procedure time persist. However, AI assistance standardizes detection quality, reduces operator variability, and enhances early CRC prevention. Despite limitations like the study’s retrospective nature, AI-assisted colonoscopy represents a significant advancement in improving colonoscopy quality and outcomes.