Background and study aims
Video-colonoscopy, despite being the gold-standard for diagnosis of colorectal lesions, has limitations including patient discomfort and risk of complications. This study assessed training characteristics and acceptability in operators of a new robotic colonoscope (RC).
Materials and methods
Participants (n = 9) with varying degrees of skill and background knowledge in colonoscopy performed colonoscopies with a RC on a simulation-based training model. Quantitative procedure-related and qualitative operator-related parameters were recorded.
Results
Polyp detection rate was highest in the novice group (91.67 %) followed by experts (86.11 %), then equally, trainees and video gamers (79.17 %). Four participants repeated the procedure at a follow-up session. Each participant improved cecal intubation time and had the same or higher polyp detection rate. The potential role for RC was identified for an out-of-hospital environment and as a novel diagnostic tool.
Conclusions
Results from this pilot suggest that operators at all skill levels found the RC acceptable and potentially useful as a diagnostic tool. Acquisition of skills with RC seems to improve rapidly to a clinically relevant level with simulation-based training
Conclusions Serology based confirmation of CD proved to be both effective and appealing to our patient population. The results should encourage greater uptake of this diagnostic strategy. Small bowel biopsies remain important in children with suggestive symptoms but whose TTG titres are <10 times the ULN, or in whom there is concern about dual pathology.
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