The London Clinic introduces AI device to aid colonoscopy

The London Clinic independent hospital and charity in Harley Street reports that it is the first hospital in the UK and one of the first in the world to employ GI Genius, a device that uses AI to enhance the quality of colonoscopies, offering a new solution for the early detection of colorectal cancer.

Produced by medical device company Medtronic, the GI Genius module acts as a second observer during colonoscopies, assisting doctors by identifying lesions and small mucosal abnormalities that may signal
cancer.

Studies have shown that having a second observer can increase polyp detection rates, the clinic says.

The GI Genius system works by analysing the video stream during colonoscopy and using advanced AI to highlight the presence of pre-cancerous lesions with a visual marker in real-time. The device offers the potential to improve diagnosis and outcomes for patients with colorectal cancer.

Consultant gastroenterologist Dr Rehan Haidry said: “The system represents an important advancement in technology and is a crucial step in the fight against colorectal cancer, supporting both patients and doctors.

“The technology is incredibly powerful and is proven to be extremely precise in identifying lesions in the colonic  mucosa that can be difficult to detect. Some polyps can be very small, and during colonoscopy procedures you are examining the colon, which is five feet long, so it is vital to be as thorough as possible.”

Dr Haidry added: “Having a second set of eyes that can pick up the smallest change in real-time means we can focus our attention on the right places, which can be life-saving for patients.”

Published on page 7 of the December 2020 issue of RAD Magazine.