Comparison of transanal irrigation and glycerol suppositories in treatment of Low Anterior Resection Syndrome
This study is looking into two different ways to help people who experience bowel-related problems after surgery for bowel cancer. This condition is called Low Anterior Resection Syndrome (LARS). The two treatments being compared are transanal irrigation (TAI), which is a way to gently flush out the bowel, and glycerol suppositories, which are placed into the back passage. The main goal is to find out which of these treatments is better at improving the most troublesome symptoms experienced by patients. To do this, they will use a patient-friendly questionnaire called the 'Measure Yourself Medical Outcome Profile' (MYMOP) score to track changes in symptoms. Researchers also want to see how these treatments affect overall bowel function, quality of life, and even bladder function.
At a glance
What is this study about?
When people have surgery for bowel cancer, especially in the lower part of the bowel, it can sometimes lead to a collection of symptoms called Low Anterior Resection Syndrome (LARS). These symptoms can include things like needing to go to the toilet urgently, having difficulty controlling bowel movements, or going more frequently than before. These problems can be really bothersome and affect daily life.
This particular study is designed to compare two different ways of helping people with LARS. One method is called transanal irrigation (TAI). This involves using a small amount of liquid to gently wash out the lower part of the bowel. The other method uses glycerol suppositories, which are small, bullet-shaped medicines inserted into the back passage that help to make bowel movements easier. The researchers want to find out which of these two approaches is more effective at making patients feel better and improving their bowel control.
They will be carefully tracking how patients' main symptoms change over time using a special questionnaire. They will also look at how these treatments affect other important aspects like general bowel function, quality of life (how health problems affect daily living), and even bladder function, as sometimes bowel issues can be linked. By comparing these two treatments, the study hopes to help doctors understand the best ways to support people recover and manage their lives after bowel cancer surgery.
Key takeaways
- Compares two treatments for bowel problems after bowel cancer surgery (LARS).
- Looks at transanal irrigation vs. glycerol suppositories.
- Aims to find which treatment is better at improving patient symptoms.
- Studies impact on bowel function, quality of life, and bladder function.
- Open to adults aged 18 and over, both men and women.
Who may be eligible?
To be considered for this study, you need to be an adult, 18 years of age or older. Both men and women are welcome to take part.
This study is specifically for people who have been diagnosed with Low Anterior Resection Syndrome (LARS) after having surgery for bowel cancer. The researchers want to understand how different treatments affect those experiencing these specific bowel-related symptoms.
There might be other health conditions or medications that could prevent you from joining, but these will be discussed with you in detail by the study team to ensure the study is safe and appropriate for you.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Have you had surgery for bowel cancer?
- Have you been diagnosed with Low Anterior Resection Syndrome (LARS)?
- Are you able and willing to follow study instructions and complete questionnaires?
This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you would be assigned to one of two treatment groups: either transanal irrigation or glycerol suppositories. You would use your assigned treatment as instructed by the study team.
Throughout the study, you would be asked to complete questionnaires to track your symptoms, bowel function, quality of life, and bladder function. These questionnaires help the researchers understand how the treatments are affecting you. You would have regular appointments or check-ins with the study team to monitor your progress and ensure your safety. The exact number of visits and the total duration of your participation would be explained fully by the study team, but typically, these types of studies might last several months to a year.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- —Denmark
Common questions
What is Low Anterior Resection Syndrome (LARS)?
LARS is a group of bowel problems that can happen after surgery for bowel cancer, like needing to go to the toilet urgently or having difficulty with bowel control.
What is transanal irrigation?
Transanal irrigation is a way to gently wash out the lower part of the bowel using a small amount of liquid to help manage bowel movements.
What are glycerol suppositories?
These are small, soft medicines that you place into your back passage. They help to make your bowel movements easier.
Will I know which treatment I'm receiving?
The study will assign you to one of the treatments. The study team will explain how this works and whether you will know which treatment you are on.
How long will I need to be in the study?
The exact duration will be discussed with you by the study team, but similar studies can last several months to a year, with regular check-ups.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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