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Several studies have suggested that performing colonoscopy with a second observer, such as an endoscopy fellow or nurse, increases polyp detection (Gastrointest Endosc 2011; 71:1223 and JW Gastroenterol Jan 13 2012), but others have found no association (Dis Colon Rectum 2009; 52:1337).
In the current study, 502 patients were randomized to undergo a screening colonoscopy by an endoscopist only (control group) or with the addition of an endoscopy nurse as a second observer. Nineteen endoscopy nurses with a mean of 8.2 years of experience participated. Sessile serrated polyps were categorized as adenomas.
The number of adenomas found in the nurse observer group was 0.82 per colonoscopy compared with 0.64 in the control group, representing a 28%…