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Random versus Limited Biopsies for the Detection of Precancerous Changes in the Colon among Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease, The URBI Study

Trial Status: active

This clinical trial compares random versus limited biopsies in detecting precancerous changes in the colon among patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). People with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, conditions referred to as IBD, have an increased risk of developing colon cancer. Doctors try to reduce that risk by finding and removing precancerous lesions. This is done with a colonoscopy performed every few years. At the time of the colonoscopy, the doctor looks carefully for lesions that appear to be precancerous and will biopsy or remove the lesions. In addition, doctors take biopsies of normal-appearing colon to look for inflammation and invisible precancerous changes. Researchers believe that nearly all precancerous lesions can be seen and that careful examination of the lining of the colon is the most effective way to find and remove the precancerous lesions before they turn into cancer. Prior studies suggest that taking additional biopsies of normal appearing colon may be both beneficial and harmful. It could be helpful by finding invisible precancerous changes. It could be harmful if taking additional biopsies distracts the doctor from finding and removing visible precancerous changes. Not taking as many biopsies may lower the risk of bleeding and may shorten the time under anesthesia. This trial may help researchers determine which biopsy approach is more effective at detecting precancerous changes.