Use of artificial intelligence improves colonoscopy performance in adenoma detection: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly used to improve adenoma detection during colonoscopy. This meta-analysis aimed to provide an updated evaluation of computer-aided detection (CADe) systems and their impact on key colonoscopy quality indicators.

METHODS

We searched the EMBASE, PubMed, and MEDLINE databases from inception until February 15, 2024, for randomized control trials (RCTs) comparing the performance of CADe systems with routine unassisted colonoscopy in the detection of colorectal adenomas.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight RCTs were selected for inclusion involving 23,861 participants. Random-effects meta-analysis demonstrated a 20% increase in adenoma detection rate (risk ratio [RR], 1.20; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.14-1.27; P < .01) and 55% decrease in adenoma miss rate (RR, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.37-0.54; P < .01) with AI-assisted colonoscopy. Subgroup analyses involving only expert endoscopists demonstrated a similar effect size (RR, 1.19; 95% CI, 1.11-1.27; P < .001), with similar findings seen in analysis of differing CADe systems and healthcare settings. CADe use also significantly increased adenomas per colonoscopy (weighted mean difference, 0.21; 95% CI, 0.14-0.29; P < .01), primarily because of increased diminutive lesion detection, with no significant difference seen in detection of advanced adenomas. Sessile serrated lesion detection (RR, 1.10; 95% CI, 0.93-1.30; P = .27) and miss rates (RR, 0.44; 95% CI, 0.16-1.19; P = .11) were similar. There was an average 0.15-minute prolongation of withdrawal time with AI-assisted colonoscopy (weighted mean difference, 0.15; 95% CI, 0.04-0.25; P = .01) and a 39% increase in the rate of non-neoplastic resection (RR, 1.39; 95% CI, 1.23-1.57; P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

AI-assisted colonoscopy significantly improved adenoma detection but not sessile serrated lesion detection irrespective of endoscopist experience, system type, or healthcare setting.