If your doctor has ordered a colonoscopy, you may be wondering what other choices you have. A colonoscopy really is the best test out there for detecting and treating problems in the colon. But there are some other options before going for a full colonoscopy. Barium enema — a test performed with an x-ray. This test is less accurate than a colonoscopy, often missing or misdiagnosing lesions. An abnormality detected with a barium enema may actually be residual waste in an incompletely cleansed colon. You may end up needing a colonoscopy anyway to clarify the results. Flexible sigmoidoscopy — a … Continue reading →