New endoscopes and add-on devices to improve colonoscopy performance

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Medical Technology
• Cancer Prevention

Background:

• Colonoscopy is crucial for colorectal cancer prevention but can miss precancerous lesions, leading to interval cancers.
• Factors like patient, endoscopist, and procedure can contribute to missed lesions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent technological advancements in colonoscopy aimed at improving polyp detection and reducing missed lesions.
• To evaluate the impact of these innovations on colonoscopy quality indicators and patient outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Review of novel colonoscopes with wider fields of view (up to 330°) using multiple cameras.
• Discussion of add-on devices for standard colonoscopes offering retrograde views or fold straightening.
• Analysis of how these technologies affect key performance metrics.

Main Results:

• Advanced endoscopes increase the field of view, potentially reducing missed lesions.
• Add-on devices improve visualization of difficult-to-see areas, such as colonic folds.
• These technologies aim to enhance adenoma detection rate and decrease polyp miss rate.

Conclusions:

• Recent technological advances show promise in overcoming colonoscopy's limitations.
• Improved visualization and detection capabilities can enhance the effectiveness of colorectal cancer screening.
• Further research is needed to fully integrate and validate these innovations in clinical practice.