Comparison of One-Person Technique and Two-Person Technique for Colonoscope Insertion: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Endoscopy
• Medical Procedure Optimization

Background:

• The one-person technique (OPT) is the standard for colonoscope insertion.
• The two-person technique (TPT) may offer advantages over OPT.
• This study aimed to compare TPT and OPT performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the performance of the two-person technique (TPT) versus the one-person technique (OPT) in colonoscopy.
• To assess key quality indicators and patient/endoscopist experience.

Main Methods:

• Prospective randomized study comparing OPT and TPT in 204 patients.
• Procedures performed by six endoscopists with varying skill levels.
• Primary endpoints: adenoma detection rate, cecal intubation rate, insertion/total times. Secondary: patient/endoscopist tolerability.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in adenoma detection rate, cecal intubation, or procedure times between OPT and TPT.
• Patients reported lower pain scores with TPT.
• Endoscopist fatigue (FACIT-F) was significantly reduced with TPT.

Conclusions:

• The two-person colonoscopy technique is not technically or clinically inferior to the one-person technique.
• TPT enhances patient tolerance and decreases endoscopist fatigue.