By Dr. Nihit Shah, MD, Gastroenterologist, Virtua Gastroenterology & Digestive Health

After performing countless colonoscopies, one thing has never changed: detecting polyps early can change — and even save — a life.

A colonoscopy is the best way to prevent colon cancer. By finding and removing precancerous polyps before they have a chance to turn into cancer, we can often stop the disease before it starts.

But if there’s one thing that has changed about colonoscopies, it’s the technology that empowers us to do that work even better. At Virtua, we’re using innovative tools like GI Genius, an artificial intelligence–assisted system that works alongside us during a colonoscopy, analyzing the live video feed in real time and highlighting areas that may contain subtle or hard-to-see polyps.

Think of GI Genius as a second set of eyes during this screening — adding precision, consistency, and another layer of confidence to every exam we perform. It doesn’t replace our expertise. It enhances it.

Here are some answers to a few frequently asked questions about this technology:

What is GI Genius?

GI Genius is an AI-powered system that analyzes the live video feed during a colonoscopy and highlights areas that may contain polyps or abnormal tissue.

As I guide the scope through the colon, the system continuously scans the image and alerts me to subtle changes in the lining that might be easy to miss with the human eye alone—especially very small or flat polyps.

Think of it as a highly trained digital assistant that works in the background, supporting me in real time.

How does GI Genius improve a standard colonoscopy?

A traditional colonoscopy already does an excellent job of detecting abnormalities. GI Genius adds an additional layer of support. It helps identify hard-to-spot polyps, including small, flat or subtle lesions. In fact, during clinical studies, GI Genius has shown a 50% reduction in missed colorectal polyps.

That means a more thorough exam and greater confidence in the results.

Does GI Genius replace the physician?

Absolutely not.

GI Genius does not diagnose, treat, or make clinical decisions. I remain fully responsible for performing the colonoscopy, interpreting what I see, deciding whether tissue is abnormal, and determining next steps.

The technology supports your doctor’s judgment—it doesn’t replace it.

Is GI Genius safe?

Yes. GI Genius is FDA-cleared and has been studied extensively in clinical settings. It simply analyzes video images—it does not interact with your body, add time to the procedure, or expose you to anything additional.

Where is GI Genius offered?

GI Genius is utilized at all of Virtua’s hospitals and in our affiliated ambulatory surgery centers. In fact, Virtua is the first health system in the region to fully implement GI Genius across the entire health system ensuring that patients have access to the most advanced technology for cancer detection.

Who is eligible for an AI-assisted colonoscopy?

Anyone who is due for colorectal cancer screening can benefit.

Current guidelines recommend starting this screening at age 45 for people at average risk. Individuals with family history of cancer, concerning symptoms such as a change in bowel habits or unexplained weight loss, or certain medical conditions may need earlier or more frequent screening.

If you’re unsure when you should be screened, a conversation with your primary care provider or gastroenterologist is the best place to start.

Why are colonoscopies so important?

Most colorectal cancers begin as polyps.

If we find and remove polyps early—before they become cancerous—we can often prevent cancer from developing altogether. That’s why screening colonoscopies are such a powerful tool in cancer prevention.

The more accurately and consistently we detect polyps, the better chance we have to stop cancer before it starts.

If you needed a colonoscopy, would you want GI Genius used during your exam?

Yes, without question. As a gastroenterologist, I understand how important it is to detect even the smallest or most subtle polyps. Knowing that GI Genius provides an additional set of eyes during the procedure gives me greater confidence that nothing is overlooked. It’s the kind of technology I would want for my own screening and for my family members as well.

It’s easier than ever to schedule your colonoscopy with Virtua Health.

Scheduling a consultation with a Virtua gastroenterologist or colorectal surgeon is a simple first step toward peace of mind and proactive digestive health. If you’re age 45 or older and are relatively healthy with no unusual GI symptoms, you may qualify for our fast-track option which allows you to skip the office visit. Call 856-341-8457 to get started.