Improving colonoscopy training with sensorized manikins and computer coaching

Advanced Colonoscopy Training Developed Through Manikin Sensorization and Computational Optimization Modeling

['FUNDING_R01'] · PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY, THE · NIH-11367410

This project builds realistic sensor-equipped practice manikins and a computer coach to help doctors learn colonoscopy skills faster and more safely.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorPENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY, THE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (UNIVERSITY PARK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11367410 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

From a patient's perspective, this project makes lifelike colonoscopy manikins with internal sensors and uses many real colon CT scans to model typical anatomy. The team will create a virtual coaching system that gives feedback to trainees based on optimization models and the manikin sensor data. They will test and refine the system so it matches real patient anatomy and typical procedure challenges. Better-trained doctors could mean more successful, consistent colonoscopies for people like you.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: The work is most relevant to adults who undergo screening or diagnostic colonoscopy for colon cancer prevention or evaluation.

Not a fit: People who never need colonoscopy or who already receive care exclusively from highly experienced endoscopists may not see direct benefit from this project.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this could lead to more consistent, safer colonoscopies with fewer missed lesions and potentially lower costs for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous simulation and manikin-based endoscopy training has improved clinician skills, while combining detailed sensorized manikins with optimization-based virtual coaching is a newer approach.

Where this research is happening

UNIVERSITY PARK, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Cancer Detection, Cancers

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.