Published online Dec 7, 2018. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v24.i45.5179
Peer-review started: August 20, 2018
First decision: October 14, 2018
Revised: October 18, 2018
Accepted: November 16, 2018
Article in press: November 16, 2018
Published online: December 7, 2018
Processing time: 109 Days and 7.8 Hours
To assess the incremental benefit of narrow band imaging (NBI) and white light endoscopy (WLE), randomizing the initial technique for the detection of residual neoplasia at the polypectomy scar after an endoscopic piecemeal mucosal resection (EPMR).
We conducted an observational study in an academic center to assess the incremental benefit of NBI and WLE randomly applied 1:1 (NBI-WLE or WLE-NBI) in the follow-up of a post-EPMR scar by the same endoscopist.
A total of 112 EPMR scars were included. The median baseline polyp size was 20 mm (interquartile range: 14-30). At first review, NBI and WLE showed good sensitivity (85.0% vs 78.9%), specificity (77.1% vs 84.2%) and overall accuracy (80.0% vs 82.5%). NBI after WLE (WLE-NBI group) improved accuracy, but this difference was not statistically significant [area under the curve (AUC): 86.8% vs 81.6%, P = 0.15]. WLE after NBI (NBI-WLE group) did not improve accuracy (AUC: 81.4% vs 81.1%, P = 0.9). Overall, recurrence was found in 39/112 (34.8%) lesions.
Although no statistically significant differences were found between the two techniques at the first post-EPMR assessment, the use of NBI after WLE may improve residual neoplasia detection. Nevertheless, biopsy is still required in the first scar review.
Core tip: Endoscopic mucosal resection of colon polyps in a piecemeal fashion requires a first close follow-up to detect residual neoplasia. There are limited data on the optimal approach to reviewing polypectomy scars with narrow band imaging (NBI). In this prospective observational study, which randomized the initial technique for the detection of residual neoplasia, NBI was slightly more accurate than white light endoscopy. To improve the assessment of polypectomy scars, high-definition endoscopes with NBI should be the rule. However, biopsies are still required at the first follow-up, even if there are no macroscopically evident lesions.