AI-enhanced colonoscopies: How they offer sharper precision for cancer screening and other gastro issues

Polyps in the colon or rectum can be difficult to detect due to the small size of the cell growths, some of which measure less than five millimetres in diameter.

With help from computer-aided artificial intelligence (AI) detection systems, these polyps, that may be missed by the human eye, can be better spotted during colonoscopies.

Dr Pauleon Tan, senior consultant and colorectal surgeon at Curasia Endoscopy Centre, explains: "The AI detection system functions as a second observer, helping to highlight abnormalities in real time that might need a closer look. It is especially useful for identifying polyps that are smaller in size."

The impact of this advanced technology is significant. "This method can produce a 6 to 15 per cent higher detection rate of potentially cancerous lesions," says Dr Tan, who adds that AI-assisted colonoscopies have the same safety profile as traditional procedures, without increasing risks such as bleeding or a tear in the wall of the colon or rectum.

With improved detection rates, screening becomes an even more powerful tool in the fight against colorectal cancer. Early detection through regular screening can significantly improve treatment outcomes. The frequency of these screenings can range from five to 10 years, depending on the results of the polyp sample from the initial screening.

Colonoscopy screening is critical in detecting colorectal cancer at an early stage. When detected early, colorectal cancer can be easier to cure. Furthermore, not all polyps are malignant, and the removal of these polyps can prevent progression to cancer.

Regular and early screening can also provide valuable insights into various aspects of gastrointestinal health, offering advantages that contribute to overall well-being.

Dr Tan says: “A colonoscopy is an efficient procedure in that it serves to diagnose conditions and treat them on the spot. Polyps can be removed during the procedure when found. The procedure also helps inform future preventive measures that might be needed. All this can be done in as little as half an hour.”

The procedure is equally important for both men and women, with initial screenings recommended at the age of 50 for those without risk factors. For individuals with increased risk, such as a personal history of ovarian or endometrial cancer, screenings should begin at an earlier age.

Dr Tan encourages AI-aided colonoscopy for those aged above 45 for a more thorough review.

He also advises those who encounter issues such as bloating, abdominal discomfort, rectal bleeding, sudden loss of weight and change in bowel habits to proactively reach out for a check-up.

“These symptoms may be an early indicator of poor colorectal health, especially if they last longer than usual. By coming in for a colonoscopy, we can start to find out the root cause and also put the patient’s mind at ease.”

He adds that those who have a family history of colorectal cancer, are obese or have a diet high in processed or red meat, and low in fruits and vegetables, should consider having a colonoscopy early.

Studies have shown that the removal of polyps reduces mortality from colorectal cancer by around 50 per cent, says Dr Tan.

AI-assisted colonoscopy is a key service provided at Curasia Endoscopy Centre.

The centre’s chief executive officer Don Poh says it aims to be a one-stop specialist provider for endoscopic procedures.

“We offer consultation, screening, surgery and post-consultation all in one location. Other than performing colonoscopies, we also look into stomach and oesophagus conditions. We essentially cover the entire gastrointestinal tract,” says Mr Poh.

The clinic provides value-added services such as complimentary two-way transport to the clinic and back to their home for patients who undergo procedures involving sedation at its premises.

For patients who prefer to have their follow-ups done at government hospitals, the clinic is able to refer them to the public health system.

This means that patients will be able to benefit from subsidies and have a direct referral to the specialist clinics in the government sector, saving them an additional trip to the polyclinic.

Mr Poh says Curasia’s patients are at the heart of all it does: “One of our patients from Palembang in Indonesia sent us a handwritten thank you note. He even offered to be our guide if we were to ever visit his city.”

“It’s through these warm gestures that we know our service is valued and we will keep striving to give the best care that we can.”

For more information, visit Curasia Endoscopy Centre.