Olympus Launches AI-Powered Polyp Detection System for Colonoscopies

Olympus, a leading medical technology company, has announced the launch of its first artificial intelligence (AI) application in the United States, marking a significant advancement in gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy. The new AI-powered system, called Caddie, is designed to assist clinicians in detecting polyps during colonoscopies, potentially improving early diagnosis rates for colorectal cancer.

Olysense Platform and Caddie: A New Era in Intelligent Endoscopy

Olympus has introduced the Olysense platform, which serves as the foundation for Caddie and future AI applications. This intelligent endoscopy system integrates with hospital data and utilizes cloud-based software to analyze recorded video for the detection of precancerous colorectal polyps and adenomas.

Keith Boettiger, Olympus' head of gastrointestinal solutions, emphasized the importance of this development, stating, "With the Olysense platform, we are taking a meaningful step forward in helping patients receive early, accurate diagnoses. Our goal is simple: to give clinicians the advanced tools that make it easy to find and assess challenging lesions early, make confident, informed decisions and provide their patients with the best possible care."

Clinical Trial Results Demonstrate Significant Improvements in Detection Rates

A randomized clinical trial conducted across eight European hospitals has shown promising results for Caddie. The AI-assisted system demonstrated increased detection rates across various lesion types compared to standard unassisted colonoscopy:

• 136% relative increase in detection of large polyps (>10 mm)
• 93% increase in detection of large adenomas (>10 mm)
• 29% increase in detection of small adenomas (≤5 mm)
• 57% increase in detection of flat, low-profile adenomas
• 230% improvement in detection of sessile serrated lesions

Importantly, the study found no increase in unnecessary biopsies or extractions, suggesting that the AI system enhances detection without compromising specificity.

Integration and Availability

Caddie will be integrated with Olympus' Evis X1 and Exera III endoscopy systems, allowing clinicians immediate access through a software update. The system received FDA clearance in July 2024 and was acquired by Olympus through its $79 million purchase of UK-based Odin Vision in 2023.

As the medical technology landscape continues to evolve, Olympus plans to expand its AI offerings on the Olysense platform, potentially revolutionizing the field of gastrointestinal endoscopy and improving patient outcomes in the years to come.