A Narrative Review on the Role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Colorectal Cancer Management

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Medical Informatics
• Artificial Intelligence

Background:

• Colorectal cancer is a leading malignancy requiring innovative detection and treatment strategies.
• Artificial intelligence (AI) and deep learning show significant potential in improving patient outcomes.
• Current management necessitates advancements in early detection, surgical techniques, and postoperative care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role and benefits of AI in colorectal cancer management across various stages.
• To evaluate AI's potential for cost-effective implementation in clinical practice.
• To highlight AI's advantages in screening, pathology, imaging, staging, and surgical interventions.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, and Scopus.
• Included studies were published in English within the last 10 years, focusing on adult colorectal cancer patients over 35.
• A total of 122 articles, including RCTs, cohort studies, meta-analyses, and reviews, were selected based on defined criteria.

Main Results:

• AI tools demonstrate improved accuracy in colorectal cancer screening, pathology evaluation, and staging.
• AI-assisted surgery shows comparable or superior outcomes to laparoscopic methods, with reduced hospital stays.
• AI facilitates personalized medicine approaches and has the potential to minimize missed diagnoses.

Conclusions:

• AI offers significant advantages in managing colorectal cancer, from early detection to postoperative care.
• Further multicenter studies and randomized trials are essential to validate AI's efficacy and guide its integration into standard practice.
• AI implementation in colorectal cancer care holds promise for enhanced precision, efficiency, and personalized treatment strategies.