Hackensack University Medical Center Successfully Applies GI Genius AI for Colon Cancer Detection

Real-time imaging analysis tool helps locate polyps and characterize cancer risk with a 40 to 45% detection rate

Hackensack University Medical Center has reached significantly higher colon polyp detection rates by incorporating real-time artificial intelligence (AI) analysis into colonoscopy procedures. 

With a 2022 grant award from ASGE/Medtronic, the center became an early adopter of GI Genius, incorporating three AI-powered colonoscopy units. It was the first center in New Jersey to receive the grant, which was awarded to centers with the goal of implementing this powerful new colorectal cancer screening tool in communities with historically low screening rates. 

Colonoscopies have not significantly changed since their beginning, with the exception of more tolerable prep formulations. But AI-assisted procedures recently helped increase Hackensack University Medical Center’s colonoscopy polyp detection rate to 40 to 45%, significantly higher than the Medicare-issued goal of 25%.

The AI tool provides imaging assessment to locate polyps—effectively deciphering polyps from bubbles and debris—but also to characterize the risk level of each poly as low or high risk, helping to reduce unnecessary removals and biopsies. 

Hackensack University Medical Center is also applying AI in colorectal robotic surgery simulations for educational purposes and in tracing of instrument use during surgery to identify opportunities to consolidate instruments when possible and streamline costs.

Learn more about Gastroenterology innovations at Hackensack University Medical Center.