Efficacy of ScopeGuide-Assisted Training in Enhancing Colonoscopy Competence and Reducing Patient Discomfort

Abstract

Objective: In this study, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy of the Magnetic Scope Guide Assist (ScopeGuide) in enhancing the procedural competence of endoscopists and reducing patient discomfort during colonoscopy. Methods: This was a retrospective study with 88 trainee participants. The study participants were trained on patients who underwent colonoscopy without anesthesia. Both ScopeGuide-assisted training and conventional training (without ScopeGuide) were utilized for colonoscopy instruction. The outcomes of training were compared, with a particular emphasis on the competency of looping resolution. Results: ScopeGuide-assisted training was superior to conventional training in multiple aspects, including looping resolution (Z=−3.681, P<0.001), pain scores (Z=−4.211, P<0.001), time to reach the cecum (Z=−4.06, P<0.001), willingness to undergo repeat colonoscopy (Z=−4.748, P<0.001), competence of positional changes (Z=−4.079, P<0.001), and the effectiveness of assisted compression (Z=−3.001, P=0.003). Further stratified analysis revealed that the ScopeGuide-assisted training mode was more beneficial for junior endoscopists (P<0.05 in all parameters) but not for intermediate endoscopists (P>0.05) and partially beneficial for senior endoscopists (P<0.05 for all parameters except looping resolution). Conclusion: ScopeGuide-assisted training can significantly facilitate endoscopists in resolving loops and reducing patient pain, thereby enhancing their colonoscopy abilities.