Colorectal polyps are frequent lesions detected during colonoscopy, and their identification and management can be challenging. Training in polypectomy should be an integral part of the gastroenterology residency curriculum to ensure optimal patient care. 

This study aimed to assess, through an anonymous survey, the training needs of endoscopists regarding polypectomy to identify the obstacles encountered and to propose adapted educational programs

This was a cross-sectional, prospective, descriptive, and analytical study conducted using an online questionnaire distributed to several gastroenterologists. Training needs were assessed using the FGP (Frequency, Gravity, Problems) grid for seven items. Each item was evaluated according to its frequency (0, 1, 2), its severity (0, 1, 2), and the difficulties related to knowledge, technical skills, and professional attitudes (0, 2, 4). Statistical analysis was performed using Jamovi software (Version 2.4).

Fifty-three responses from 12 countries were analyzed. A total of 60.4% of participants were women, with a female-to-male ratio of 1.5. Participants aged 30–40 years accounted for 39.6% of the sample, while those aged 20–30 years comprised 28.3%. Residents represented 34% of respondents, and 19% were physicians. 

More than 60% of participants had been practicing hepatogastroenterology for over 5 years, yet only 37.7% had received polypectomy training during residency. Six out of ten participants had been trained in polyp characterization and the use of polypectomy devices. Several teaching modalities were reported for these two items, with a predominant role of workshops held during national and international congresses (45.3% and 41.5%, respectively) and self-learning (69.8% and 45.3%). 

More than half of the participants considered the training they received to be insufficient (64.2%), expressing a preference for hands-on training on models (62.3%) and on patients (71.7%). 

According to the FGP grid, the main difficulties concerned technical skills (mean score of 13.9 per participant for the seven items), followed by theoretical knowledge (12.6). 

87% of participants reported theoretical difficulties in polyp characterization, 81% in managing post-resection complications, and 75% in performing polypectomy. 

Regarding technical skills, 94% of participants reported difficulties in polyp characterization and 91% in resection and complication management. 

Among the variables studied — including status, initial training, training modalities (hands-on, webinar, certification), and years of endoscopic practice — none were significantly associated with the reported difficulties. In contrast, the frequency of performing polypectomies was the only factor associated with a reduction in difficulties (OR = 0.79; 95% CI: 0.52–0.96; p = 0.0249).

Endoscopic polypectomy is a common procedure in digestive endoscopy, but it requires specific expertise. This multicentre survey identified several training needs, particularly in the areas of polyp characterisation, resection techniques, and managing complications. 

More than half of the participants considered their training to be insufficient, highlighting the need for strengthened continuing education and structured hands-on training programs to optimize polyp management and enhance endoscopists’ skills.