Comparison of blue laser imaging and light‐emitting diode‐blue light imaging for the characterization of colorectal polyps using the Japan narrow‐band imaging expert team classification: The LASEREO and ELUXEO COLonoscopic study

OBJECTIVES: Although the laser light is optically ideal for producing narrow‐band light, it has not been used in some areas of the world. Endoscopic light sources using light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) are used worldwide. The purpose of this study was to compare blue laser imaging (laser‐BLI) and LED‐blue light imaging (LED‐BLI) for the characterization of colorectal polyps using the Japan narrow band imaging expert team (JNET) classification. METHODS: Colorectal lesions were prospectively examined using magnifying narrow‐band light generated by a laser (laser‐BLI) or LEDs (LED‐BLI). Twelve endoscopists (six non‐experts and six experts from three institutions) evaluated each still‐magnified image of lesions using the JNET classification. RESULTS: Seven hundred and fifty‐six images from 63 lesions were reviewed. The mean polyp size was 24.5 ± 13.4 mm. Histopathology included 13 serrated lesions and 50 neoplasms. The rate of agreement between laser‐BLI and LED‐BLI using the JNET classification was 92.5% (699/756). The weighted κ‐statistic was 0.99. The percentages of “almost similar” comparing scores of surface patterns, vessel patterns, and brightness among all endoscopists were 95.4%, 95.9%, and 95.0%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: This multicenter study demonstrates that the rate of agreement between laser‐BLI and LED‐BLI using the JNET Classification is very high. The surface patterns, vessel patterns, and brightness are almost similar.