In short
There is currently 1 ongoing clinical trial for Low Anterior Resection Syndrome, a condition that affects bowel function following rectal cancer surgery. This trial is investigating whether glycerol suppositories or transanal irrigation can help improve symptoms and quality of life for patients experiencing persistent bowel problems after surgery.
Clinical trial locations
Study on Improving Bowel Function in Patients with Low Anterior Resection Syndrome Using Glycerol Suppositories or Transanal Irrigation
This clinical trial is designed for people who have undergone surgery for rectal cancer and are now dealing with ongoing bowel problems. The condition being addressed typically causes symptoms such as frequent bowel movements, urgency, difficulty controlling gas and stool, and a feeling that the bowel hasn't completely emptied. These symptoms can significantly affect daily life and cause considerable discomfort.
Who can participate:
- Adults aged 18 or older who have had a type of rectal cancer surgery called low anterior resection
- Patients who are at least 3 months past their surgery, including reversal of any temporary ostomy
- Those who have tried standard treatment for at least 4 weeks without satisfactory improvement, as indicated by a score greater than 29 on the assessment scale used to measure symptoms
- Individuals who can understand and complete questionnaires in the language used at the study location
Who cannot participate:
- People who are not experiencing bowel function problems after rectal surgery
- Those outside the specified age range for the study
What the trial involves:
The study compares two different approaches to managing bowel problems. The first approach uses glycerol suppositories, which are small, solid forms of medicine inserted into the rectum. These work by drawing water into the bowel, which softens stool and makes it easier to pass. The second approach is transanal irrigation, a method that involves using water introduced through the anus with a special device to help empty the bowel.
Participants will start with one of these treatments, and researchers will carefully monitor how well it works by tracking changes in bowel function and overall quality of life. If the first treatment doesn't provide enough improvement, participants may switch to the alternative treatment to see if it works better for them.
Throughout the study, participants will be asked to complete questionnaires about their symptoms and how they're feeling. This information helps researchers understand which treatment is more effective at managing the challenging symptoms that can occur after rectal cancer surgery. The study is expected to continue until August 2026.
The main goal is to provide better treatment options and improve the quality of life for patients dealing with these difficult symptoms following cancer treatment.
Summary
Currently, there is one active clinical trial addressing Low Anterior Resection Syndrome, taking place in Denmark. This trial focuses on comparing two practical bowel management strategies: glycerol suppositories and transanal irrigation. Both treatments are designed to help patients who continue to experience bowel dysfunction despite trying standard therapies after rectal cancer surgery. The study takes a patient-centered approach by allowing participants to switch treatments if the first option doesn't provide adequate relief, which may help identify which individuals respond better to each type of intervention.
