Environmental Impact of Computer-Aided Diagnosis in Colonoscopy Highlighted in New Study

Strategic Insights -

A new study on the environmental impact of computer-aided diagnosis (CADx) in colonoscopy has found that while CADx may reduce the number of unnecessary polypectomies, it could lead to increased greenhouse gas emissions associated with the devices themselves. The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Oslo, quantified and compared the carbon footprint of CADx in colonoscopy using life-cycle assessments. The results suggest that using CADx in the leave-in-situ strategy would increase the environmental burden of colonoscopy.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study analyzed 1,134 individuals with 1,716 colorectal polyps and found that colonoscopy with CADx reduced the number of snares and polyp traps from 567 to 543 (difference: 24) and histopathology submissions from 1,343 to 1,278 (difference: 65).
  • The total carbon footprint increased from 832 kg COe (95% CI: 815 to 847) without CADx to 946 kg COe (95% CI: 927 to 965) with CADx, corresponding to an absolute increase of 114 kg COe (95% CI: 80 to 150) or 0.10 kg COe per colonoscopy.
  • The study suggests that the environmental impact of CADx in colonoscopy may not be as benign as previously thought, and that alternative strategies should be explored to minimize the environmental burden of the procedure.
  • The researchers used SimaPro v9.5.0.0 to estimate lifecycle carbon emissions associated with endoscopic snares, polyp traps, histopathology, and CADx devices.
  • The study highlights the need for further research into the environmental impact of medical devices and procedures to inform evidence-based decision-making.
  • Eliminating unnecessary polypectomies may not compensate for the increased COe emissions associated with CADx devices.
  • The research has significant implications for the development of sustainable medical practices and the reduction of environmental impact.
  • The study was conducted by Natalie Halvorsen, Clinical Effectiveness Research Group, University of Oslo.
  • Additional authors include Olaolu Olabintan, Robin Baddeley, Shin-Ei Kudo, Ishita Barua, Masashi Misawa, Kensaku Mori, Claire Hunt, Jens Aksel Nilsen, Svein Oskar Frigstad, James East, Amit Rastogi, Cesare Hassan, Mette Kalager, Magnus Loberg, Amyn Haji, and Oyvind.

Statistics:

  • Total carbon footprint increased by 114 kg COe (95% CI: 80 to 150) or 0.10 kg COe per colonoscopy with CADx.
  • 1,134 individuals were analyzed in the study, with 1,716 colorectal polyps.
  • 567 snares and polyp traps were used without CADx, compared to 543 with CADx (difference: 24).
  • 1,343 histopathology submissions were made without CADx, compared to 1,278 with CADx (difference: 65).
  • COe emissions were estimated using SimaPro v9.5.0.0.

Sources:

  • NewsRx. Findings from University of Oslo in the Area of Environmental Impact Reported (Environmental Impact of Computer-Aided Diagnosis in Colonoscopy: A Carbon Footprint Assessment of a Prospective Study Cohort). Health & Medicine Week. October 24, 2025; p 594.
  • Environmental Impact of Computer-Aided Diagnosis in Colonoscopy: A Carbon Footprint Assessment of a Prospective Study Cohort. Endoscopy, 2025.