NCT06370884 · University of Minnesota
Intestinal Microbiota Transplantation in Patients Undergoing Colon Resection
What this study is about
This is a single-center, where both patients and doctors know the treatment given study for safety and feasibility of IMT in patients undergoing colonic surgery.
View original scientific description
This is a single-center, open-label study for safety and feasibility of IMT in patients undergoing colonic surgery. After consent, individuals of the ages of 18-75 with a history of diverticulitis or sigmoid colon cancer will be enrolled to have a feeding tube placed at the time of surgery and receive IMT solution on postoperative day 2-3 (at least 48 hours following IV antibiotics) with the subsequent removal of the feeding tube. Prior to administration of IMT, recipients will be screened for inclusion/exclusion criteria, interviewed for medical history and medications, and consented. Additionally, prior to undergoing IMT, baseline blood and fecal samples will be collected. The use of a nasogastric feeding tube has specifically been chosen over colonoscopic introduction of the IMT. This is because colonoscopy introduces increased intraluminal carbon dioxide and pressure as well as mechanical stress on the colon in the setting of a newly created bowel anastomosis, which may contribute to the potential risk of anastomotic disruption. The nasogastric feeding tube will be placed while the patient is under anesthesia under direct visualization to minimize any risk of bowel perforation, albeit very low. The study will specifically utilize a 10F 43" Corpak feeding tube (Halyard Health, Alpharetta, GA). Patients will be monitored while in-patient in person. Following discharge, they will undergo follow-up either by phone, video or in-person visit, or via online survey of symptoms and chronic medical conditions potentially related to IMT, beginning on the day following discharge through post-operative day 14, and then monthly up to 6 months post- IMT to screen for SAEs and AEs. Screening for SAEs and AEs will be done using a symptom questionnaire as well as by asking patients during our interview. Fecal samples will be collected from participants on months one, three and six post-IMT to assess for changes in recipient microbiome (engraftment kinetics).
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
- Able/willing to provide informed consent
- Between 18-75 years of age
- Undergoing surgery for a history of diverticulitis or sigmoid colon cancer.
- Able to provide fecal samples
- Stated willingness to comply with all study procedures and availability for the duration of trial to follow-up by telephone, in-person, email, and/or video visits or correspondence
Exclusion criteria
- Any history of inflammatory bowel disease
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding. A pregnancy test will be obtained from females of child- bearing potential on the proposed day of IMT (prior to the receipt of IMT). Patients with a positive pregnancy test will be excluded. A negative result will be required for subjects who are females of child-bearing potential to receive IMT treatment.
- Life expectancy of \< 6 months
- Presence of ileostomy or colostomy
- Known history of inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's, Ulcerative Colitis)
- Patients on immunosuppressants (calcineurin inhibitors, prednisone ≥ 20 mg/day, methotrexate, azathioprine, immunosuppressive biologics, JAK inhibitors)
- Patients with neutropenia (an absolute neutrophil count \< 0.5 x 109 cells/L) obtained on a complete blood count with differential at screening.
- History of solid organ or bone marrow transplant.
- Anticipated recurrent antibiotic use (e.g., patients with frequent urinary tract infections or sinusitis).
- History of severe anaphylactic food allergy.
- History of celiac disease.
- Patients receiving cancer chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or radiation.
Where
- Minneapolis, Minnesota
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 Jul 2, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations