Understanding fecal incontinence and how a novel stool-like device could help diagnose and guide therapy

Who could benefit from this research

What this research studies

This project uses a new device called Fecobionics, shaped like normal stool, to measure how the anorectal area works during defecation. Researchers will collect data on pressures, movement, and tissue mechanics as the device travels through the rectum and anus, with upgraded hardware and software to map how these factors relate to continence. The goal is to connect physiological measurements with patients’ symptoms to improve diagnosis and tailor biofeedback therapy. The study involves adult participants with fecal incontinence or related conditions and will analyze how the device’s readings correlate with relief or persistence of symptoms.

Why it matters

Where this research is happening

• California Medical Innovations Institute
  San Diego, United States Active

Researchers

• Principal investigator: Gregersen, Hans — California Medical Innovations Institute
• Study coordinator: Gregersen, Hans

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

• Understanding and Treating Fecal Incontinence with a New Device

  This work explores new ways to understand and treat fecal incontinence, a common condition, using a special electronic device called Fecobionics.

  NIH research California Medical Innovations Institute · San Diego, United States · NIH-11140302

• Treatment for fecal incontinence and urgency

  This study is looking at new ways to help people with fecal incontinence and urgency, especially older adults and those with neurological issues, by exploring how certain nerves in the colon work and how blocking them might make things better, giving participants a chance to help create better treatments for everyday l

  NIH research Dignify Therapeutics, LLC · Research Triangle Park, United States · NIH-10919294

• Active vs. Passive Anal Sphincter Training in Fecal Incontinence

  This home-based trial tests whether adding active sphincter contractions to electrical stimulation helps adults with fecal incontinence more than stimulation alone.

  Recruiting University Hospital, Martin · Martin · NCT07604415

• Beta-glucan cream added to standard skin care for IAD in hospitalized adults

  This study tests whether adding a 0.5% beta-glucan moisturizing cream to usual skin care helps adults with incontinence-associated dermatitis heal faster and feel better.

  Recruiting University of Alberta · Edmonton, Alberta · NCT07524439

• R20 Sacral Neuromodulation for Fecal Incontinence: Post‑Market Follow‑Up

  This registry test checks how well the Axonics R20 rechargeable device works for adults with fecal incontinence after it’s on the market.

  Recruiting at 4 sites Axonics, Inc. · New York, New York and 4 other locations · NCT07499258

• High-intensity electromagnetic stimulation for bowel control after J-pouch surgery

  Aims to see if the Emsella chair can help people with a J pouch who have fecal incontinence after ulcerative colitis surgery.

  Recruiting Cedars-Sinai Medical Center · Los Angeles, California · NCT07034443

About this research

1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.