An endoscopy image database for research and training. Version 2.0

  • Research type

    Research Database

  • IRAS ID

    326599

  • Contact name

    Laurence Lovat

  • Contact email

    l.lovat@ucl.ac.uk

  • Research summary

    An endoscopy image database to improve the detection and characterisation of gastrointestinal pathology

  • REC name

    East of England - Cambridge Central Research Ethics Committee

  • REC reference

    23/EE/0106

  • Date of REC Opinion

    19 Jun 2023

  • REC opinion

    Further Information Favourable Opinion

  • Data collection arrangements

    Study number for patient procedure (this is a number generated for the research database only – this cannot be used to re-identify patients)
    Patient demographics (such as age by decade, biological sex, ethnicity)
    Patient medical data (such as major co-morbidities, anti-coagulants / anti-thrombotic medication, relevant GI conditions)
    Procedure performed (month of procedure, colonoscopy Indication, recurrence of a lesion)
    Procedure extent (anatomical landmark)
    Image processor used
    Endoscope used
    Total number of lesions imaged
    For each lesion imaged (study number generated for each lesion for the research database only):
    Image type: Digital still image or video
    Lesion Size (mm) and classification using standard classification systems such as Paris and Prague
    Location within gastrointestinal tract
    Resection information including bleeding / perforation
    Imaging modalities used
    Optical diagnosis
    Histopathology (if applicable)
    Image classification
    Image type
    Image findings

    The non-identifiable image files on the encrypted USB flash disks or hard drive will then be transferred to the research team at the Wellcome/EPSRC centre for Interventional and Surgical Sciences (WEISS) at UCL. The data will be uploaded to a secure UCL server within the computer science department which will host the database.
    Alternatively, non-identifiable image or video data can be transferred electronically to a secure electronic database in the same way that non-image data is transferred.

  • Research programme

    We propose that an endoscopy imaging database would allow for significant research advances leading to multiple projects in the following areas for example: 1) Development and comparison of methodologies for training, accreditation and quality assurance in endoscopy 2) Development of deep learning algorithms and computer vision techniques to allow for automated computer aided detection and characterisation of lesions and landmarks 3) Development and validation of novel classification systems for characterising lesions and landmarks 4) A comparison in the accuracy of endoscopic optical diagnosis using different imaging modalities 5) Comparisons in endoscopic image interpretation between endoscopists and deep-learning computer software 6) Development of deep learning algorithms and computer vision techniques to allow for automated measurement of existing and new quality metrics in endoscopy 7) Development of computer software using deep-learning techniques to automate endoscopy reporting 8) Creation of a future robust research platform to ensure the above objectives are continuously developed as novel imaging techniques emerge over time The ultimate aim is to use the database to produce high impact research outcomes and training resources leading to an improvement in the quality of endoscopy performed and a reduction in missed cancer rates and associated mortality. No other databases of this nature exist as far as we are aware. This database will be made available for other users in line with access arrangements set out in section 19 of this application. We believe that this will offer a valuable resource to interested groups around the UK.

  • Research database title

    An endoscopy image database to improve the detection and characterisation of gastrointestinal pathology

  • Establishment organisation

    Wellcome/EPSRC Centre for Interventional and Surgical Sciences, University College London

  • Establishment organisation address

    Charles Bell House

    43-45 Foley Street, London

    London

    W1W 7TS