Using probiotics to improve bowel function after colorectal cancer surgery

Time to Return of Bowel Function Following Perioperative Probiotics in Colorectal Cancer Surgery (PICCS-1)

NA · National University Hospital, Singapore · NCT06456229

This study is testing if taking probiotics before and after colorectal cancer surgery can help patients recover their bowel function faster and reduce complications.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment162 (estimated)
Ages21 Years to 99 Years
SexAll
SponsorNational University Hospital, Singapore (other)
Locations1 site (Singapore)
Trial IDNCT06456229 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the effects of perioperative probiotics on the recovery of bowel function in patients undergoing elective colorectal cancer surgery. It aims to determine whether the administration of probiotics can reduce the incidence of postoperative ileus, which is a common complication that delays recovery. The study will involve patients who are on an early recovery after surgery (ERAS) pathway and are willing to consider oral nutritional supplementation. Participants will be monitored for time to flatus and defecation post-surgery to assess the effectiveness of the intervention.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 21 to 99 who are scheduled for elective colorectal cancer surgery and are on an ERAS pathway.

Not a fit: Patients undergoing emergency surgery or those with contraindications to probiotics will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to faster recovery times and improved outcomes for patients undergoing colorectal cancer surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with probiotics in improving postoperative recovery in gastrointestinal surgeries, indicating potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. undergoing elective colorectal cancer surgery in which an oncologic resection is planned
2. age between 21 and 99 years at the time of consent
3. willing to consider oral nutritional supplementation
4. on an early recovery after surgery (ERAS) pathway
5. able to provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

1. patients with known contraindications to probiotic use
2. patients undergoing emergency surgery
3. taking any other form of probiotics
4. taking oral antibiotics within 7 days of commencement of study
5. vulnerable patients including pregnant patients, inmates, and those who are cognitively impaired and therefore are not able to provide informed consent.

Where this trial is running

Singapore

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Colorectal Cancer, Ileus Postoperative, Flatus, Diet, Healthy, colorectal cancer, colorectal surgery, nutritional supplementation, probiotics

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.