Using lollipops to help children recover from surgery
Official title: Effect of Lollipop on Postoperative Gastrointestinal Recovery in Children: A Randomised Controlled Trial
Run by The University of Hong Kong · NCT06108011 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if sucking on lollipops can help children recover faster and feel better after major abdominal surgeries.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | Any age to 18 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | The University of Hong Kong Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hong Kong) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | December 1, 2023 |
| Main results expected | April 2025 |
| Study ends | June 2025 |
| Registry record updated | December 11, 2024 |
| Trial ID | NCT06108011 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are children scheduled for major abdominal surgeries such as appendicectomy or bowel resection.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with neurological conditions affecting sucking or those under sedation or mechanical ventilation will not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effect of sucking on lollipops to improve gastrointestinal recovery in children after major abdominal surgeries. Postoperative ileus, a common complication, can lead to discomfort and longer hospital stays. By stimulating the digestive system through sucking, the study aims to enhance recovery times and overall satisfaction with surgical care. The research will include children undergoing various major surgeries, assessing the role of lollipops as a simple and effective intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce recovery times and improve patient satisfaction for children undergoing major surgeries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that similar interventions, like chewing gum, can expedite recovery in adults, suggesting potential for success with lollipops in children.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Patients receiving major abdominal surgery (e.g.appendicectomy, choledochal cyst surgery, bowel resection etc) Exclusion Criteria: * Patients with neurological conditions that preclude sucking/swallowing. * Patients under sedation and/or mechanical ventilation and/or ionotropic support in the post operative period. * Patients with known food allergy or allergy to food coloring agents
Where it's running
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Department of Surgery, University of Hong Kong
Hong Kong, Hong Kong Recruiting
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.