Gastroenterology saw major industry-specific technological advancements in 2024 — especially when it comes to AI.
"GI successfully integrated advanced artificial intelligence into diagnostics and procedures, proving efficiency and patient outcomes without compromising the human touch in care," Nitin Sardana, MD, a gastroenterologist with Gastro Health in Fairfax, Va., told Becker's.
AI is being utilized across both clinical and patient-focused aspects of GI. Omar Khokhar, MD, a gastroenterologist at Illinois GastroHealth in Bloomington, recently told Becker's that a six-month AI pilot program at his center led to a substantial improvement in polyp detection, with rates increasing from 45% to 65%.
Iterative Health's Skout and Medtronic's GI Genius are two AI-assisted options making waves in the industry. Computer-assisted colonoscopy methods could lead to an at least 50% decrease in the miss rate of adenomas.
"This innovation allowed the field to stay at the forefront of medical technology while maintaining high standards," said Dr. Sardana.
While implementing AI technology is a major financial investment, Dr. Khokhar said that it could potentially pay for itself over time. Because the technology is bringing patients back for surveillance exams and generating more pathology, these revenue streams could potentially offset the cost of AI, he said.
In fact, two studies published in June found that an AI tool may be able to reach underserved populations by re-engaging individuals who previously missed or avoided an appointment.
Researchers used an AI tool to reengage 2,400 patients who missed colonoscopies, 58% of patients who engaged with the AI accepted a live transfer to a staff member to reschedule their appointments, and 25% of patients completed their colonoscopy screening.
Additionally, giving patients more choice in their colorectal cancer screening options could increase the number of patients who get screened, according to a May study from the Perelman School of Medicine in Philadelphia.
When patients were given the choice between a take-home test kit or undergoing a colonoscopy, more patients voluntarily underwent screenings.
These two studies may demonstrate to health systems effective ways to engage patients for routine screenings as colorectal cancer rates continue to rise nationwide.