Insights into endoscopic imaging.

Abstract

Unarguably, the evolution of optical imaging technologies during the last decades has had a significant impact on the field of endoscopy. Conventional white-light colonoscopy has revealed a limited accuracy (59-84%) in differentiating neoplastic from non-neoplastic polyps [1-3]. Conversely, the optical diagnosis in vivo, at the time of endoscopy, is deemed to be an attractive approach for physicians, patients and health providers. With the advent of Narrow Band Imaging (NBI) and Chromo-Endoscopy (CE), new perspectives for the characterization of polyp features have emerged aiming at a more accurate diagnosis. Of importance, these modalities can be combined with high-resolution and/or magnification endoscopy (ME) to improve optical outcomes [3,4]. However, their wide routine use requires provision of appropriate evidence demonstrating their benefit and cost-efficacy and physician’s education, familiarity and competence.