Intelligent Endoscopy Module Detects Pre-Cancerous Growths

A novel computer-aided detection (CADe) system that is compatible with any colonoscope uses artificial intelligence (AI) to identify colorectal polyps.

The Medtronic (Dublin, Ireland) GI Genius module highlights the presence of precancerous lesions with a visual marker in real-time, serving as an ever vigilant second observer. It processes images using advanced AI algorithms that can identify and mark abnormalities consistent with polyps, including small flat polyps that might otherwise go undetected by the human eye. Developed by Cosmo Pharmaceuticals (Dublin, Ireland), the GI Genius intelligent endoscopy module is based on a unique proprietary library of high-definition lossless videos of colonoscopies and proprietary software and algorithms.

Clinical studies have shown that having a second observer can increase polyp detection rates, and every one percent increase in adenoma detection rate (ADR) reduces the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) by three percent. By using the GI Genius module, a 14% absolute increase in ADR was measured (compared to colonoscopy alone) for both flat (42% increase) and polyploid (36% increase) lesions, substantially increasing colonoscopy accuracy and reducing the rise of interval cancers, which can occur between colonoscopies.

“Medtronic is committed to preventing colorectal cancer and improving patient outcomes with disruptive technologies that aid screening, increase patient compliance, and improve treatment," said Giovanni Di Napoli, president of the gastrointestinal business at Medtronic. “We expect to enhance and improve colonoscopies and polyp detection. By introducing AI technology into the colonoscopy market, we anticipate improving colonoscopy detection rates and reducing variability in patient outcomes.”

“Through the strong partnership with Medtronic over the last two years, Cosmo has expanded its position in the medical device market within its core GI expertise, has gained global access, and will ultimately reach more patients,” said Mauro Ajani, Chairman of Cosmo Pharmaceuticals. “We are extremely pleased and very optimistic about the impact the GI Genius intelligent endoscopy module will have on the US patient population undergoing colonoscopy.”

CRC is the second most common cause of cancer-related death both in Europe, killing over 215,000 Europeans every year, as well as in the United States, with an estimated 134,000 diagnoses and 49,000 deaths in 2016 alone. But despite compelling evidence that screening can detect CRC and precancerous polyps, nearly one-third of the recommended adult population has never been screened.

Related Links:
Medtronic
Cosmo Pharmaceuticals