Artificial Intelligence software giving Roscommon hospital a helping hand 

Roscommon Hospital is to invest in Artificial Intelligence (AI) software to support specialised scope procedures aimed at detecting and preventing bowel cancer, the Roscommon Herald has learned.

A spokesperson for the Saolta Hospital group has confirmed to the Herald that, similar to other endoscopy units, funding has been provided to the unit at the hospital to enable it to “purchase an artificial intelligence software module for colonoscopy that can support polyp detection characterisation”.

A colon polyp is abnormal tissue growths that forms on the lining of the colon. Most polyps are harmless but over time, some can develop into colon cancer.

The spokesperson explained that this AI software “enhances the clinical identification of polyps by highlighting areas of the colon for the clinician to review”.

Since the opening of the endoscopy unit in 2016, Roscommon University Hospital has become a recognised centre for a national bowel screening programme. BowelScreen, as it is known, supports the continued delivery of high-quality endoscopy services nationwide.

“We are interested in research that shows the possible benefits to patients of digital transformation and new technologies in bowel screening,” said the spokesperson.

BowelScreen invites people aged 59-69 years to take a free bowel screening test every two years. It aims to detect colorectal (bowel) cancer as early as possible when there are no symptoms; and to identify and remove adenomas or polyps.

“This greatly reduces the risk of future bowel cancer development. Colorectal cancer screening is a preventative health measure,” said the spokesperson.