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Gastroenterology patients at Mercy Southeast now have a second set of “eyes” scanning their colonoscopies for polyps thanks to a new artificial intelligence tool.
Mercy Clinic Gastroenterology – Broadway in Cape Girardeau now offers patients enhanced colonoscopies with Medtronic’s GI Genius, the first in the area to do so. Using advanced imaging and AI software, GI Genius helps gastroenterologists detect potentially precancerous polyps, small growths of cells that can lead to colorectal cancer, in real time. The tool works in combination with the physician’s own observations by flagging any irregularities for them to check. Early detection is essential in preventing colorectal cancers, which includes both colon cancer and rectal cancer, but polyps can sometimes be difficult to detect because of their small size.
“We’re thrilled to offer this new technology in our colorectal cancer screenings for patients,” said Dr. Brent Keller, Mercy Southeast gastroenterologist. “GI Genius is another set of eyes for us. During a colonoscopy, it scans the colon alongside me. It doesn’t replace anything we’re already doing. Instead, it’s an extra layer that will help us improve the accuracy of the care we’re providing.”
The new GI Genius tool is already being used at Mercy hospitals in Springfield, Missouri; Fort Smith and Rogers in Arkansas; and Oklahoma City.
Routine colorectal cancer screenings are recommended for patients starting at age 45 or for younger patients who have a family history of colorectal cancer to allow specialists to detect and treat colorectal cancer in its earliest, most treatable stage. Polyps develop slowly and may not cause symptoms. Colorectal cancer is the third-most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society. For people younger than 50, the colorectal cancer rate is the only one that is rising among the five most common cancers and has become the deadliest. Approximately 160,000 cases of colorectal cancer are diagnosed each year.
To learn more about enhanced colonoscopies with GI Genius or Mercy Clinic Gastroenterology – Broadway, call 573-331-7910 or visit www.mercy.net/practice/mercy-clinic-gastroenterology-broadway.
