Enhancing Colonoscopy Training Through Simulation-Based Training: Designing and Evaluating an Interactive Graphical...

Colonoscopy can reduce the risk of colon cancer by 90%. Due to the lack of surgeon experience, the miss rate of cancerous polyps can reach up to 20%. While simulators have been developed to reduce the high learning curve, these simulators lack real-time feedback needed for successful colonoscopies. The goal of the study was to improve upon colonoscopy training by designing a graphical user interface (GUI) through a two-phase study that included 10 semi-structured interviews and a usability study with 10 participants. Results showed that simulators do not mimic colonoscopy in patients and lack real-time feedback. Additionally, medical residents experience challenges like navigating the scope and loop reduction. User testing results show that users were satisfied with the GUI. Additionally, feedback on polyp detection, cecal intubation time, and force was perceived as useful. As such, the GUI with real-time and post-training feedback has the potential to improve performance in colonoscopy.