Assessment of Endoscopic Tip Control Using a Novel Score Based on Snare Tip Soft Coagulation of ex Vivo Model (HAM STUDY)

Study Endpoints: Primary endpoints include correlating STSC accuracy and speed with endoscopist expertise profiles, defining expected tip control ranges, and assessing agreement between raters. Secondary endpoints focus on evaluating improvement in tip control following training.

Methods: A prospective trial will be conducted, involving endoscopists of varying experience levels.

Participants will undergo assessments while performing STSC on the margin of a line within an ex vivo model to simulate a polypectomy defect. The assessments will be video-recorded and anonymized. After the first assessment, the participants will perform a tip control training session on the model before each subsequent assessment. A total of four assessments and three training sessions will be performed. An online application will be used by a pool of 6 expert raters to anonymously rate the videos of the STSC application and calculate the accuracy (number of correct hits over number of wrong hits) and the speed (hits/second) of tip control. No questionaries will be administered to the participants.

Statistical Methods: Statistical analysis will be performed using R software, with data collected and managed in Excel. Pseudonymized data will be stored securely on the hospital server.

Conclusion: This study outlines a comprehensive approach to evaluating endoscopist tip control during STSC application. By developing a standardized assessment tool and conducting a prospective trial, the investigators aim to improve our understanding of tip control proficiency and its implications for endoscopic practice.