BACKGROUND & AIMS The optimal training method for endoscopic characterization of colorectal polyps using narrow-band imaging is uncertain, and sessile serrated lesions (SSLs) optical diagnosis data are lacking. We aimed to evaluate a comprehensive training program for real-time optical diagnosis of colorectal polyps, including SSLs.

METHODS We performed a single-institution prospective study of 15 endoscopists trained with the Workgroup Serrated Polyps and Polyposis classification system. After the first phase of in vivo optical diagnosis, their performances were evaluated. After re-education for insufficient competency, they began the second phase. The learning curves and performance on 2 preservation and incorporation of valuable endoscopic innovations benchmarks were assessed.

RESULTS A total of 7294 polyps, including 486 SSLs, were diagnosed in real-time. The overall accuracy improved from 73.5% in the first phase to 77.1% in the second. The accuracy with high confidence was 79.4% and 85.1% in the first and second phases, respectively. In the first and second phases, the negative predictive values for diminutive neoplastic polyps were 82.1% and 92.5%, respectively, and concordances of the surveillance intervals were 80.7% and 89.7%, respectively. Eight endoscopists achieved the preservation and incorporation of valuable endoscopic innovations benchmarks after the second phase compared with none after the first. In contrast, the high confidence rate decreased from 74.6% to 70.2% as training progressed.

CONCLUSION A comprehensive training program for real-time optical diagnosis significantly improved performance and reduced individual variability in less-experienced endoscopists. ClinicalTrials.gov no: NCT02516748.