Talking Points Preparation for colonoscopy is relatively extensive and may include enemas and a powerful laxative. The test itself is generally well tolerated because sedation is routinely, although not invariably, used.
People frequently find the preparation worse than the test.
Because of its high accuracy for the detection of polyps and cancer of any size, and the long natural history of colorectal cancer, the test needs to be performed every 10 years. Provider capacity to provide screening colonoscopy is currently unknown but being evaluated. Specialized training is required. In some settings, primary care clinicians may have a disincentive to order the test because it will generate a specialist referral. As with any of the other screening tests, if a large lesion is discovered, a colorectal surgeon may need to be consulted.