Colorectal cancer screening gets AI boost at Allina Health Buffalo Hospital

BUFFALO, Minn. (March 04, 2024) — Buffalo Hospital is the first location in the Allina Health system to use an artificial intelligence-based tool to screen for colorectal cancer. Called GI Genius, the endoscopy module is an artificial intelligence (AI), computer-aided device designed to aid in the detection of colorectal polyps, often the precursor to colorectal cancer. GI Genius essentially acts as an extra set of eyes for doctors during colonoscopies. 

AI may pick up polyps faster than a trained endoscopist, and it helps the provider detect flat polyps in hard-to-view areas. 

A colonoscopy with GI Genius begins like any other. The endoscopist uses a tube-like device to look inside the colon. Once the colonoscope reaches the end of the colon, the team engages GI Genius, which compares the images on the screen to an algorithm which has 13 million stored images of polyps. When the device comes across a potential polyp, it lights up the area on the screen with a green box.

The endoscopist then checks to see if the targeted image is truly a polyp. If it's not, the endoscopist keeps going. GI Genius helps make sure the endoscopist is removing as many potential pathologic polyps as possible. The Medtronic-produced technology does not collect data from patients.

Colorectal cancer is the third most common form of cancer diagnosed in the United States. Screening is essential for prevention and early detection. Colorectal cancer cases are on the rise among people under 50, and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends screenings for people 45 and up.

 

Photo provided by Medtronic

Allina Health is a nonprofit health care system serving Minnesota and western Wisconsin, dedicated to preventing and treating illness and improving the health of individuals, families, and communities. Through a network of more than 90 clinics, 12 hospital campuses, 13 retail pharmacies, specialty care centers, home care, and emergency medical transportation, Allina Health provides high-quality care from birth through end-of-life.  

At the forefront of Allina Health’s mission are its Institutes, which offer nationally recognized experts and advanced care in key specialties:  

• Allina Health Minneapolis Heart Institute – A leader in cardiovascular innovation, research, and care delivery through clinical trials, publications, and training 4,000+ providers annually, it is consistently rated ‘High Performing’ by U.S. News & World Report.  
• Allina Health Cancer Institute – Providing comprehensive, personalized and innovative oncology care across the full cancer journey, delivered at ten locations – including its three largest hospitals which U.S. News & World Report consistently rates “High Performing” in multiple oncology specialties.  
• Allina Health Neuroscience, Spine and Pain Institute – Offering advanced neurological and spine care, including two nationally accredited stroke centers, innovative focused ultrasound treatment for essential tremor and tremor-dominant Parkinson's and a chronic pain rehabilitation program – one of only two in Minnesota.  

Together, these Institutes exemplify Allina Health’s commitment to clinical excellence, innovation, and compassionate care. Learn more at allinahealth.org and join us on Facebook, X, Instagram and LinkedIn.