Chewing gum to help children recover from abdominal surgery
The Impact of Chewing Gum on Postoperative Ileus in Children Who Undergo Abdominal Surgery: a Prospective, Randomized, Controlled Pilot Study
This study is testing if chewing gum can help children recover faster from abdominal surgery by improving their bowel function.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 140 (estimated) |
| Ages | 4 Years to 17 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Manitoba Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Winnipeg, Manitoba) |
| Trial ID | NCT03666377 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates whether chewing gum can enhance bowel recovery in children who have undergone abdominal surgery. It aims to address postoperative ileus, a condition that can delay recovery and prolong hospital stays. By implementing a protocol that includes gum chewing, the study seeks to determine if this intervention can facilitate a quicker return to normal bowel function and diet. The research is based on evidence from adult studies suggesting that similar approaches may be beneficial for pediatric patients.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are children aged 4 years and older who are undergoing abdominal surgery and are expected to stay in the hospital for more than 24 hours postoperatively.
Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 4 years, unable to chew gum, or have certain medical conditions may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to faster recovery times and shorter hospital stays for children after abdominal surgery.
How similar studies have performed: While there is evidence supporting the use of gum chewing in adults for similar purposes, this approach has not been extensively tested in a large randomized controlled trial for pediatric patients.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Children more than or equal to 4 years of age * Children who undergo abdominal surgery (both laparoscopic or open) * Children who have an expected postoperative length of stay more than 24 hours Exclusion Criteria: * Children who are less than 4 years of age * Children who are unable to chew gum/swallow (e.g. intubated, decreased level of consciousness, cognitive or physical disability) * Children or their parents are not willing to sign consent * Children or their parents are unable to follow directions regarding gum chewing, * Children who have a GI dysmotility disorder (e.g. chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction)
Where this trial is running
Winnipeg, Manitoba
- Children's Hospital of Winnipeg/Manitoba — Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Anna Shawyer, MD, MSc — University of Manitoba
- Study coordinator: Anna Shawyer, MD, MSc
- Email: ashawyer@hsc.mb.ca
- Phone: 204-787-2394
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.