Objective Differences in Colonoscopy Technique Between Trainee and Expert Endoscopists Using the Colonoscopy Force Monitor

Abstract

Background

Learning to perform colonoscopy safely and effectively is central to gastroenterology fellowship programs. The application of force to the colonoscope is an important part of colonoscopy technique.

Aims

We compared force application during colonoscopy between novice and expert endoscopists using a novel device to determine differences in colonoscopy technique.

Methods

This is an observational cohort study designed to compare force application during colonoscopy between novice and experienced trainees, made up of gastroenterology fellows from two training programs, and expert endoscopists from both academic and private practice settings.

Results

Force recordings were obtained for 257 colonoscopies by 37 endoscopists, 21 of whom were trainees. Experts used higher average forward forces during insertion compared to all trainees and significantly less clockwise torque compared to novice trainees.

Conclusions

We present significant, objective differences in colonoscopy technique between novice trainees, experienced trainees, and expert endoscopists. These findings suggest that the colonoscopy force monitor is an objective tool for measuring proficiency in colonoscopy. Furthermore, the device may be used as a teaching tool in training and continued medical education programs.

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