Comparing early surgery to 3 days of non-surgical management for acute small bowel obstruction

SURGI-BOW - Early Surgery Versus 3 Days Non-surgical Management in Acute Small Bowel Obstruction: a Randomized Open-label Controlled Study

Not applicable Interventional University Hospital, Angers · NCT06065150

This study is testing whether early surgery or a 3-day wait-and-see approach is better for helping people with a blocked small intestine recover and avoid complications.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment630 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity Hospital, Angers Government
Locations14 sites (Amiens and 13 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06065150 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This multicenter randomized controlled trial evaluates the effectiveness of early surgical intervention versus a standard 72-hour non-surgical management approach for patients with uncomplicated acute small bowel obstruction (aSBO). Patients who meet the inclusion criteria will be randomly assigned to either receive standard care or early surgery based on their radiological score. The study aims to assess outcomes such as recovery of gastrointestinal function, morbidity, and mortality rates, with follow-up consultations at 30 and 90 days post-operation. Data will be collected daily during hospitalization and through telephone follow-ups after 12 months to monitor for any recurrence of aSBO.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults admitted for acute small bowel obstruction without indications for urgent surgery.

Not a fit: Patients requiring immediate surgical intervention due to complications like ischemia or hemodynamic shock will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved outcomes and reduced complications for patients with acute small bowel obstruction.

How similar studies have performed: While there is a lack of extensive studies on this specific approach, recent literature suggests that early surgical treatment may reduce morbidity and mortality, indicating potential for success.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Admission for acute intestinal obstruction of the small intestine on adhesion or bridle
* Confirmation of the aSBO by a scanner
* Adult patient
* Beneficiary of a social security scheme
* Having signed an informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Indication for urgent surgery (small intestine ischemia, intestinal pain, defence, hemodynamic shock, etc.)
* Pregnancy or breastfeeding
* Poor understanding of the French language
* Person deprived of liberty by judicial or administrative decision
* Person undergoing psychiatric treatment under duress
* Person subject to a legal protection measure
* Person unable to express consent

Where this trial is running

Amiens and 13 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Small Bowel Obstruction
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.