Randomized Trial Comparing the Usefulness of A Scope Guide Assisted Colonoscopy Versus Conventional Colonoscopy

Currently, the standard practice consists of utilizing a traditional colonoscope and depends on manual manipulation and learned expertise of human anatomy. If the scope guide reduces the amount of external maneuvers required, this will reduce patient discomfort and may reduce sedative requirements during procedure. Reduction in mechanical loops formed while advancing the scope will reduce the amount of time per procedure and potentially increase polyp detection. Additionally, if the physician is unable to complete the procedure (as indicated by reaching the cecum (anatomical structure signifying the end of the colon), clinical data may be lost. A reduction in the number of loops formed and ease of advancing scope will facilitate completion of procedure.

The patient will not be exposed to any inconvenience, danger, or discomfort as a result of study participation. Patients undergoing colonoscopy as SOC, if enrolled into the study, will be randomized by envelope at the time of procedure. If the patient is randomized to the scope guide, the PI simply activates the guide through a mechanical button placed on the scope itself. If the patient is randomized to SOC, the physician proceeds with the colonoscopy without activating the scope guide. The same scope is used regardless of randomization result. The physician is able to turn on and off the magnetic function through the touch of a button.

The colonoscopy procedure itself is not dependent upon use of the scope guide. However, the use of the scope guide may assist the physician in performing the procedure with less physical manipulation. Without the use of the ScopeGuide, an endoscopist is able to perform the procedure based off anatomical knowledge and through the use of maneuvers such as changing the patient position and applying external pressure. This study will test if the ScopeGuide decreases the number of maneuvers required for completion. If the number of maneuvers is decreased, it is likely to decrease patient discomfort and decrease the duration of procedure. This study will also test of the ScopeGuide increases completeness of procedure.

300 patients undergoing SOC colonoscopy will be randomized 1:1 to receive traditional colonoscopy or scope guide assisted colonoscopy.

This study will assess if the scope guide assist function improves successful completion of colonoscopy, time to completion, and reduction in the number of mechanical loops and external maneuvers required to advance the scope. Polyp detection rate and amount of sedation required will also be assessed.