TriStar StoneCrest First in Tennessee to Add Artificial Intelligence System for Enhanced Colonoscopy Screenings

TriStar StoneCrest Medical Center is the first hospital in Tennessee to use artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the detection of precancerous colonic polyps during screening colonoscopies. Enhanced screening through the GI Genius TM Intelligent Endoscopy Module, is a powerful new ally in the prevention of colorectal cancer (CRC).

“TriStar StoneCrest is proud to offer the first and only computer-aided polyp detection system in Middle Tennessee using AI to aid in the prevention of colorectal cancer,” said Lou Caputo, chief executive officer. “Bringing innovative technology to Rutherford County is what TriStar StoneCrest strives for every day. Our goal is to provide our community with the technology that will support minimally invasive procedures, increase efficiency and enhance our ability to provide the best patient care options close to home.”

Colorectal cancer remains the third most commonly diagnosed cancer, and the second-leading cause of cancer-related death among men and women in the United States. CRC screenings help physicians find colon cancer, before it causes symptoms, when the chances for successful treatment, optimal outcomes, and fewer adverse effects, are greatest.

“Although AI will not replace the expertise of a highly-trained gastroenterologist, my firsthand experience using this AI module has led me to believe that it improves our ability to detect even the smallest precancerous lesions. It also helps us find them faster, which decreases the patient’s time under anesthesia, and therefore, the risk for complications,” said board-certified gastroenterologist, Francisco E. Garcia Gonzalez, MD, MHS, with Gastroenterology Specialists of Middle Tennessee – TriStar StoneCrest.

Evidence suggests that precancerous colon polyps will be found in one out of every four individuals who undergo screening colonoscopy at the age of 45. The computer-aided polyp detection system was trained, with 13 million pictures of precancerous polyps, to precisely recognize their surface characteristics during a colonoscopy. This enhanced ability to detect precancerous colon polyps, will likely result in better CRC screenings and improved outcomes.

To schedule a colonoscopy at TriStar StoneCrest Medical Center using this advanced technology, individuals must have a referral from their primary care physician. For more information or to make an appointment, call TriStar MedLine at 615-342-1919 or visit TriStarStoneCrest.com.