Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Observational Ages 18 and up

Elective sigmoid resection for recurrent diverticulitis: does it help bowel function and quality of life?

Official title: Preoperative vs. Postoperative Bowel Function and Quality of Life in Patients Undergoing Elective Sigmoidectomy vs. Conservative Management for Recurrent Uncomplicated Diverticulitis (FRESCO-Trial)

Run by University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland · NCT03994978 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study looks at whether elective sigmoid surgery improves bowel function and quality of life for people with recurring uncomplicated sigmoid diverticulitis who may or may not need surgery.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
Enrollment252 (estimated)
SponsorUniversity Hospital, Basel, Switzerland
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Basel)
StatusRecruiting
StartedJuly 8, 2019
Main results expectedDecember 31, 2028
Study endsDecember 31, 2028
Registry record updatedMay 22, 2026
Trial IDNCT03994978 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Adults with recurrent uncomplicated sigmoid diverticulitis considered for elective sigmoid resection or for continued conservative management.

Probably not a fit

Patients with alternative diagnoses, high surgical risk (ASA 4+), or those not planning to undergo surgery may see limited benefit.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This observational assessment compares outcomes after elective sigmoidectomy versus conservative management in patients with recurrent uncomplicated sigmoid diverticulitis. It aims to clarify how surgery affects bowel function and overall quality of life, informing guidelines for individualized treatment decisions. The study acknowledges international variation in recommendations and focuses on patient-centered outcomes beyond the number of acute episodes. Data collection includes clinical history, surgical indications, and QoL measures to identify which patients benefit most from surgery. Participation is limited to adults undergoing planned elective resection or conservative care at the Basel site.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, the study could guide clinicians in choosing the most beneficial approach for individual patients, potentially improving QoL and bowel function.

How similar studies have gone: Previous work has shown mixed results; this study seeks to provide clearer guidance specifically on QoL and bowel function.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients with recurrent uncomplicated diverticulitis and surgical indication for sigmoid resection
* Patients with recurrent uncomplicated diverticulitis and non-surgical indication for conservative management
* Confirmation of at least one episode of acute uncomplicated diverticulitis in computed tomography

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients aged under 18.
* Patients unable to understand an informed consent.
* Patients with chronic pain disorder.
* Patients with sigmoid fistulas
* Emergency operations.
* Pregnant women or lactation.
* Patients with other severe gastrointestinal diseases, such as inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), carcinoma or immunologic disorders.
* Patients unable to perform surgery or high-risk patients according to the American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA 4 grade or higher)

Where it's running

  • St. Claraspital Basel
    Basel, Switzerland
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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  • Evaluating quality of life after surgery for diverticulitis

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How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.