NCT07084441 · University of Washington
Comparison of Outcomes of Management of Bowel Obstruction
(COMBO)
What this study is about
The Comparison of Outcomes of Management of Bowel Obstruction (COMBO) trial is a patient-level randomly assigned trial of a short course of dexamethasone + supportive care vs supportive care alone for patients with adhesion-related small bowel obstruction (aSBO).
View original scientific description
The Comparison of Outcomes of Management of Bowel Obstruction (COMBO) trial is a patient-level randomized trial of a short course of dexamethasone + supportive care vs supportive care alone for patients with adhesion-related small bowel obstruction (aSBO). The goal of the COMBO trial is to answer the question: Can Dexamethasone increases the proportion of patients with resolution of aSBO with non-operative management (without complication) based on an established minimal important clinical difference.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Adults ≥18 years of age recruited from UWMC
- Patients presenting to surgical services through the Emergency Department, diagnosis of SBO, consulted by surgeon, and an urgent or emergency operation is deemed not necessary by surgeon.
- Diagnosis of aSBO is established by;
- CT findings consistent with diagnosis of SBO; and
- signs and symptoms consistent with SBO; and
- Adhesions from prior abdominopelvic surgery are the likely cause of SBO (absence of incarcerated hernia, internal hernia, masses, fistula, stricture, volvulus, acute episode of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) flare, etc.).
- Ability to provide written or electronic informed consent in English and answer teach-back questions
Exclusion criteria
- Signs and symptoms of peritonitis with emergency operation planned
- Planned urgent operation within the next 12 hours
- Allergy to dexamethasone
- Surgery within prior 6 weeks
- Unable or unwilling to return or be contacted for and/or complete research surveys
- Currently incarcerated in a detention facility or in police custody (patients wearing a monitoring device can be enrolled) at baseline/screening
- Individuals with latent infections who have an increased risk of infection.
Where
- New York, New York
- Seattle, Washington
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced May 7, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations