How do I know which colonoscopy procedure I should get?
My physician has urged me to get a colonoscopy or equivalent procedure. How do I know which procedure I need? How do I know if I need a virtual colonoscopy or regular colonoscopy?
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That is a great question. The colonoscopy is considered the ‘gold standard’ for diagnosis of colorectal cancer or polyps. The alternatives, such as CT colonography can be employed for patients who do not wish to undergo the small risks of colonoscopy, or have severe medical conditions that would prevent them from safely undergoing a colonoscopy. Keep in mind, the bowel prep is the same for both – which for most is the worst part.
A regular colonoscopy is the best screening test and the one recommended.