NCT05805436 · Chad R. Tracy
Preop Laxatives in Robotic Urologic Surgery
What this study is about
Minimally-invasive surgery, either laparoscopic or robotic, is commonly used in urology. Several urologic procedures including prostatectomy, radical nephrectomy, and partial nephrectomy are now commonly performed robotically.
View original scientific description
Minimally-invasive surgery, either laparoscopic or robotic, is commonly used in urology. Several urologic procedures including prostatectomy, radical nephrectomy, and partial nephrectomy are now commonly performed robotically. Patients undergoing these procedures often have delayed return of bowel function and persistent gastrointestinal symptoms including nausea/vomiting, abdominal distension, and bloating for several days to weeks after surgery. Postoperative stool softeners and laxatives are routinely used in an effort to minimize these symptoms, with varying degrees of success. The aim of this study will be to evaluate whether the use of a preoperative osmotic laxative will be beneficial in improving recovery of bowel function and alleviating postoperative gastrointestinal complaints in patients undergoing these procedures. Patients will be randomized to either receive or not receive three days of polyethylene glycol (PEG, also known as MiraLAX) on the three days before surgery. Patients in both groups will receive the same postoperative bowel regimen including scheduled PEG both in the hospital and upon discharge until first bowel movement. Patients will be given a questionnaire and diary to record their postoperative gastrointestinal symptoms and time to first bowel movement. These questionnaires and diaries will then be analyzed to determine differences in time to first bowel movement and gastrointestinal complaints during their recovery from surgery.
Interventions
DRUG
Polyethylene Glycol 3350
Patients in the intervention arm will take polyethylene glycol 3350 for three days before robotic urologic surgery. Patients in the control arm will not.
Primary outcome measures
Time to first bowel movement after surgery
Time frame: 7 days
Time to first bowel movement after surgery
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
- -Patients 30 years or older undergoing robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy, transperitoneal radical nephrectomy, or transperitoneal partial nephrectomy
Exclusion criteria
- Patients under 30 years old
- Patients with a contraindication to receiving polyethylene glycol or other forms of laxatives
- People who regularly take Miralax
- Patients undergoing retroperitoneal radical or partial nephrectomy
- Patients with severe ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease
- Patients with intestinal diversions (colostomy, ileostomy)
- Patients with prior abdominal or pelvic radiation
- Patients who will not follow up with UIHC postoperatively
- Patients who are incarcerated
Where
- Iowa City, Iowa
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
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Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
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Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced May 30, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations