Plain-English translation of NCT04087421 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · How we translate trials
Phase 3 — Testing in thousands of people, comparing the treatment against what doctors currently use. This is the last big step before approval.
After surgery to remove rectal cancer, some patients experience ongoing bowel control problems like urgency, incontinence, or difficulty with bowel movements. This trial compares two treatment approaches: transanal irrigation (a gentle water-based bowel flushing system) and glycerol suppositories (small inserts that help trigger bowel movements). The study will help doctors understand which approach works better for patients whose symptoms haven't improved with basic self-care strategies.
Many patients struggle with persistent bowel symptoms after rectal cancer surgery, and their symptoms don't get better with conservative treatments like diet changes and medications. Doctors need to know whether the water irrigation method or the suppository approach is more effective so they can offer the best second-line treatment option.
You likely qualify if…
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You will be randomly assigned to receive either transanal irrigation or glycerol suppositories for 12 weeks. If you receive irrigation, you'll use the system once daily at home, starting with small volumes and gradually increasing over three months. If you receive suppositories, you'll insert one daily to help with bowel movements. Throughout the 12-week study, you'll complete questionnaires about your symptoms and bowel function to help doctors measure how well each treatment is working.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 27, 2026 · Not medical advice
Denmark
Phase
Large-scale testing
Sponsor
University of Aarhus
Enrollment target
~114 participants
Started
September 2019
Primary completion
December 2026
Age range
18 Years and older
Last updated on clinicaltrials.gov in May 2023.
Reach out to the team running this trial. Response times vary — some teams are faster than others.
Central contact
Mira Mekhael, M.D.
Research Unit, Dept. of Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
Tell us you're interested and we'll help connect you with the research team. We'll walk you through what to expect first — no email needed to get started.