High cecal intubation rates with a new computer-assisted colonoscope: a feasibility study

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Medical Devices
• Colorectal Cancer Screening

Background:

• Colonoscopy is a key screening tool for colorectal cancer (CRC).
• Patient discomfort and the need for sedation limit colonoscopy acceptability.
• A novel self-propelled colonoscope (Invendo SC20) was developed to potentially reduce sedation requirements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the safety and efficacy of the Invendo SC20 colonoscope.
• To evaluate the cecal intubation rate in volunteers undergoing CRC screening.
• To determine the rate of sedation required with the new device.

Main Methods:

• A total of 61 healthy volunteers (aged 50-70) eligible for screening colonoscopy were enrolled.
• Procedures were initiated without sedation, using carbon dioxide or water instillation as needed.
• Key outcome measures included safety and the rate of successful cecal intubation.

Main Results:

• The cecum was intubated in 60 out of 61 volunteers, achieving a 98.4% cecal intubation rate.
• Sedation was administered to only 4.9% of participants.
• No device-related complications were reported during the study.

Conclusions:

• The computer-assisted, self-propelled colonoscope demonstrated high efficacy in screening examinations.
• The device significantly reduces the need for sedation, enhancing patient experience.
• Further clinical and comparative studies are recommended to validate these findings.