Here are five things to know:
1. The researchers found physicians were able to evaluate whether polyps were precancerous or benign correctly with high-definition optical lenses during colonoscopy.
2. The gastroenterologists had a 96 percent to 97 percent accuracy rate when evaluating polyps. National practice guidelines require gastroenterologists to send polyps for pathological examination, but that may not be necessary any more.
3. Not sending the removed polyps for pathological examination would be a significant cost savings for both patients and the healthcare system.
4. Real-time examination and polyp evaluation from the gastroenterologist during colonoscopy is also a faster way to generate feedback and recommendations for additional treatment and follow-up.
5. American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy is reviewing current colonoscopy guidelines to potentially update when and whether pathological examinations are necessary for polyps.
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