Evaluating the timing of contrast media administration for small bowel obstruction

Multicentre Randomized Trial on the Timing and Effect of Contrast Media on Patients with Adhesive Small Bowel Obstruction

Not applicable Interventional University of Tartu · NCT05678023

This study is testing if giving a special type of liquid sooner or later after a tube is placed in the stomach can help people with a small bowel blockage feel better faster.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment120 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Tartu Academic / other
Locations1 site (Tartu, Tartu)
Trial IDNCT05678023 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of administering water-soluble contrast media (CM) at two different time intervals after nasogastric-tube decompression in patients with adhesive small bowel obstruction (SBO). Patients will be randomized into two groups: one receiving CM after 4 hours and the other after 24 hours. The study aims to determine if earlier administration of CM can improve the resolution of SBO. Radiographs will be taken to assess the outcomes, and any patient requiring surgery will not be delayed in receiving necessary treatment.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older diagnosed with adhesive small bowel obstruction who do not require immediate surgery.

Not a fit: Patients with mechanical small bowel obstruction due to incarcerated hernias or carcinomatosis, or those with paralytic obstruction, will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved management strategies for patients with small bowel obstruction, potentially reducing the need for surgical interventions.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using contrast media in SBO management is common, the specific timing of administration being evaluated in this study is less frequently tested, making it a novel investigation.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients 18 years or older
* Adhesive small bowel obstruction diagnosed (clinical, laboratory and radiologic evaluation
* No peritonitis present, no need for an emergent surgery
* Patients sign an informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients younger than 18 yeas
* Patients with mechanical small bowel obstruction caused by incarcerated hernias
* Patients with mechanical small bowel obstruction caused by carcinomatosis
* Patients with paralytic small bowel obstruction
* Patients who have undergone surgery within 6 weeks
* Patients who do not want to be enrolled in the study

Where this trial is running

Tartu, Tartu

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.