In a group of patients at high risk for colorectal neoplasia, virtual and conventional colonoscopy had similar efficacy for the detection of polyps that were 6 mm or more in diameter.

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Background Eliciting patients’ preferences within a framework of shared decision-making (SDM) has been advocated as a strategy for increasing colorectal cancer (CRC) screening adherence. Our objective was to assess the effectiveness of a novel decision aid on SDM in the primary care setting. Methods An interactive, computer-based decision aid for CRC screening was developed and evaluated within the context of a randomized controlled trial. A total of 665 average-risk patients (mean age, 57 years; 60% female; 63% Black, 6% Hispanics) were allocated to one of two intervention arms (decision aid alone, decision aid plus personalized risk assessment) or a control arm. The interventions were delivered just prior to a scheduled primary care visit. Outcome measures (patient preferences, knowledge, satisfaction with the decision making process [SDMP], concordance between patient preference and test ordered, and intentions) were evaluated using pre/post-study visit questionnaires and electronic scheduling. Results Overall, 95% of patients in the intervention arms identified a preferred screening option based on values placed on individual test features. Mean cumulative knowledge, SDMP and intention scores were significantly higher for both intervention groups compared with the control group. Concordance between patient preference and test ordered was 59%. Patients who preferred colonoscopy were more likely to have a test ordered than those who preferred an alternative option (83% vs. 70%; P<0.01). Intention scores were significantly higher when the test ordered reflected patient preferences. Conclusions Our interactive computer-based decision aid facilitates SDM but overall effectiveness is determined by the extent to which providers comply with patient preferences.