Measurement system that improves the accuracy of polyp size determined at colonoscopy

AIM: To assess the accuracy of polyp size using an endoscopic lesion measurement system (ELMS). METHODS: The accuracy of polyp size assessment was compared among measurements acquired by visual estimation, disposable graduated biopsy forceps (DGBF; used as a "scale-plate") and the ELMS. RESULTS: There were 192 polyps from 166 cases included in this study. The mean diameter of the post polypectomy measurement was 0.85 +/- 0.53 cm (range: 0.2-3.0 cm). The mean diameter by visual estimation was 1.10 +/- 0.53 cm, which was significantly different compared to the actual size of the polyp (P < 0.001). The mean diameters obtained using DGBF (0.87 +/- 0.54 cm) and ELMS (0.85 +/- 0.53 cm) did not significantly differ from the actual size of the polyp. The difference between the measurements from the ELMS and DGBF was not significant. CONCLUSION: Unlike visual estimations at colonoscopy, endoscopic graduated biopsy forceps and the endoscopic lesion measurement system are accurate methods to estimate polyp size.