Using nerve stimulation after surgery to improve bowel function in rectal cancer patients
Impact of Early Postoperative Treatment With Posterior Tibial Nerve Stimulation on the Incidence and Duration of Low Anterior Rectal Resection Syndrome
This study is testing if a gentle nerve stimulation treatment can help improve bowel function and quality of life for patients recovering from surgery for rectal cancer.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 114 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Innovacion en Cirugía Vigo Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Vigo, Pontevedra) |
| Trial ID | NCT05368168 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of posterior tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS) on patients who have undergone low anterior resection for rectal cancer. It aims to determine whether this non-invasive treatment can reduce the incidence and duration of Low Anterior Resection Syndrome (LARS), which affects bowel function and quality of life. Patients will receive PTNS postoperatively to assess its impact on their recovery and overall well-being. The study is conducted at Hospital Álvaro Cunqueiro in Vigo, focusing on patients who meet specific eligibility criteria.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults over 18 who are scheduled for elective low anterior resection surgery without complications.
Not a fit: Patients with mental disabilities, those undergoing palliative surgery, or individuals with certain medical conditions like pacemakers may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could significantly improve bowel function and quality of life for patients recovering from rectal cancer surgery.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using nerve stimulation techniques for similar conditions, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Patients undergoing elective surgery (scheduled, non-urgent) who underwent anterior rectal resection or transit reconstruction with low anastomosis (below 10 cm from the anal margin) at the Hospital Álvaro Cunqueiro in Vigo after the start date of the study. * Anastomotic tightness (absence of dehiscence). * Patients older than 18 years old. * Acceptance to participate in the study. Exclusion Criteria: * Inability to understand the study instructions and recommendations. * Dementia or any type of mental disability. * Palliative surgery. * Patients with pacemakers. * Anti-coagulated patients. * Patients with trophic lesions on the skin of the ankles.
Where this trial is running
Vigo, Pontevedra
- Hospital Álvaro Cunqueiro — Vigo, Pontevedra, Spain (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Raquel Sánchez Santos, PhD
- Email: raquelsanchezsantos@gmail.com
- Phone: 629357242
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.