E-learning system to improve the endoscopic diagnosis of early gastric cancer

Abstract

We developed three e-learning systems for endoscopists to acquire the necessary skills to improve the diagnosis of early gastric cancer (EGC) and demonstrated their usefulness using randomized controlled trials. The subjects of the three e-learning systems were “detec­tion”, “characterization”, and “preoperative assessment”. The contents of each e-learning system included “technique”, “knowledge”, and “obtaining experience”. All e-learning systems proved useful for endoscopists to learn how to diagnose EGC. Lecture videos describing “the technique” and “the knowledge” can be beneficial. In addition, repeating 100 self-study cases allows learners to gain “experience” and improve their diagnostic skills further. Web-based e-learning systems have more advantages than other teaching methods because the number of participants is unlimited. Histopathological diagnosis is the gold standard for the diagnosis of gastric cancer. Therefore, we developed a comprehensive diagnostic algorithm to standardize the histopathological diagnosis of gastric cancer. Once we have successfully shown that this algorithm is helpful for the accurate histopathological diagnosis of cancer, we will complete a series of e-learning systems designed to assess EGC accurately.

Pitfalls in Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection for Early Gastric Cancer with Papillary Adenocarcinoma

“…7 Magnifying endoscopy with narrow-band imaging is reported to be effective in diagnosing papillary adenocarcinoma. [8][9][10] The vessels within the epithelial circle pattern on magnifying endoscopy with narrow-band imaging exhibited a sensitivity and specificity of 84.6% and 96.9%, respectively, for diagnosing papillary adenocarcinoma. However, coexisting undifferentiated carcinomas were observed in 22.9% of vessels within the epithelial circlepositive cancers.…”