Understanding and Treating Fecal Incontinence with a New Device
Pathophysiology, diagnosis and biofeedback therapy in fecal incontinence using fecobionics
This work explores new ways to understand and treat fecal incontinence, a common condition, using a special electronic device called Fecobionics.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | California Medical Innovations Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Diego, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11140302 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Fecal incontinence affects many Americans, and we don't fully understand why it happens or have enough effective treatments. This project aims to uncover how the muscles in the lower bowel work to control bowel movements and how their problems lead to incontinence. We are using a new technology called Fecobionics, which is an electronic device shaped like stool, to measure pressures and movements inside the body. This device will help us better diagnose the causes of incontinence and develop new biofeedback therapies to help patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Individuals experiencing fecal incontinence who are seeking improved diagnostic methods and potential new therapies may be ideal candidates for future related studies.
Not a fit: Patients whose fecal incontinence is not related to anorectal muscle function or who are not suitable for biofeedback therapy may not directly benefit from this specific approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to more accurate diagnoses and more effective biofeedback treatments for individuals living with fecal incontinence.
How similar studies have performed: The Fecobionics technology is novel, aiming to provide new insights beyond current diagnostic tests which often give incomplete or conflicting information.
Where this research is happening
San Diego, United States
- California Medical Innovations Institute — San Diego, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gregersen, Hans — California Medical Innovations Institute
- Study coordinator: Gregersen, Hans
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.