In a recent study, researchers at the University of Zurich and the University of Oxford developed a new artificial intelligence (AI) tool to determine DNA mismatch repair (MMR) status in colorectal cancer. The tool achieved 98% accuracy in identifying MMR deficiency across two large clinical trial cohorts of patients with colorectal cancer and could reduce pathologist workload by correctly classifying over three-quarters of cases without human review.
Author: Rutali Thakur
For the first time, researchers have successfully deployed a fully autonomous surgical robot to perform gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy) on pig cadavers—without any human joystick control. The system, called Surgical Robot Transformer-Hierarchy (SRT-H), was trained using videos and surgeon joystick movements on Intuitive Surgical’s Da Vinci robot. Developed by researchers at Stanford and Johns Hopkins, SRT-H mimics surgeon behavior using AI models similar to ChatGPT. It adapts in real time to anatomical differences, navigates tight surgical spaces, and even handles simulated bleeding—marking a major leap toward independent robotic surgery. While slower than human surgeons, the robot delivered smoother, more precise trajectories.…
Vibrant Wellness has launched an upgraded version of its flagship Gut Zoomer test, now featuring expanded microbial and metabolic coverage for a more comprehensive assessment of gut health. The new panel integrates multiple technologies—including PCR, ELISA, LC-MS/MS, and protein microarrays—to deliver 360° insights into digestion, inflammation, detoxification, and immunity. It profiles over 100 commensal species and detects pathogens across bacterial, fungal, viral, and parasitic groups. It also assesses vital biomarkers such as zonulin, fecal pH, occult blood, gut antibodies, and microbial metabolites like short-chain fatty acids and bile acids.
In a historic milestone for global healthcare, Dr. Vipul Patel, a robotic surgery pioneer at AdventHealth’s Global Robotics Institute in Florida, remotely performed a prostatectomy on a patient in Angola — spanning nearly 7,000 miles. The procedure, conducted at Luanda’s Complexo Hospitalar Cardeal Dom Alexandre do Nascimento, marks the world’s longest-distance telesurgery ever completed. The patient, 67-year-old Fernando da Silva, recovered well and was discharged within three days. Local hospital teams, including nurses and engineers, worked in real-time with Dr. Patel, showcasing the seamless fusion of technology and global collaboration. “This was the first teleassisted surgery in Angola — and…
Although the Affordable Care Act (ACA) mandates no-cost coverage for colorectal cancer (CRC) screenings—including required bowel preparation—more than half of patients with commercial insurance and 83% of Medicare beneficiaries are still paying out-of-pocket, a new analysis shows.1 The findings from this cross-sectional analysis are published in Gastroenterology.
Surgery Partners has turned down Bain Capital’s $25.75/share offer to take the company private, citing better value in staying independent. Bain, the largest shareholder with ~39% stake, has yet to respond. The stock dropped 13% following the announcement. Despite previous interest from TPG and UnitedHealth, the board reaffirmed its 2025 revenue forecast of $3.3B–$3.45B and plans to present its long-term strategy later this year.
In a transformative move, Ascension announced it will acquire AMSURG, adding over 250 ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) across 34 states to its network. The acquisition significantly boosts Ascension’s outpatient capabilities in gastroenterology, ophthalmology, orthopedics, and more. “This isn’t just an acquisition—it’s a deep alignment with our mission to deliver compassionate, accessible care,” said Joe Impicciche, CEO, Ascension. AMSURG, known for its physician-led joint ventures, brings decades of operational expertise and strong outcomes in outpatient care. The deal positions Ascension to lead the shift from inpatient to community-based care while supporting independent physician groups and health systems.
Despite being the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening, colonoscopy effectiveness is often compromised by one critical issue: inadequate bowel preparation. In up to 35% of cases, poor prep leads to missed polyps, incomplete exams, and increased repeat procedures. A new supplement led by GI experts Dr. David Johnson, Dr. Philip Schoenfeld, and Dr. Jack Di Palma revisits updated 2024/2025 ACG®/ASGE® guidelines, advocating for a minimum 90% adequacy rate. The paper outlines the latest metrics, risk impacts of poor prep, and how FDA-approved regimens like SUFLAVE™ and SUTAB® are helping overcome patient hesitancy and improve outcomes. “Even a ‘fair’ bowel…
Freenome just published pivotal trial results for its blood-based colorectal cancer (CRC) screening test in JAMA. With 79.2% sensitivity for CRC and 91.5% specificity, the test hit its primary endpoint—but struggled with precancerous lesions, showing just 12.5% sensitivity for advanced adenomas. That’s well below Exact Sciences’ 43% with Cologuard Plus. While Freenome eyes FDA approval in 2025, the real battle may hinge on the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force’s judgment—and whether better versions can boost detection before cancer starts.
A rising tide of evidence suggests that complementary and mind-body therapies may be quietly transforming how we treat gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. With nearly half of GI patients turning to CAM—often without telling their doctors—mainstream gastroenterology is playing catch-up. From acupuncture and probiotics to hypnotherapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy, interventions once labeled “alternative” are now gaining clinical legitimacy. Doctors like Gerard Mullin and David Hass are leading a shift toward integrative GI care, driven by rising digestive disease rates, patient demand, and surprising clinical results.