NCT05253196 · University of Colorado, Denver
Enema Device for Children With Spina Bifida
What this study is about
The International Center for Colorectal and Urogenital Care at Children's Hospital Colorado treats patients who suffer from many different colorectal issues such as anorectal malformation, Hirschsprung disease, and severe constipation. Many of these patients suffer from fecal incontinence.
View original scientific description
The International Center for Colorectal and Urogenital Care at Children's Hospital Colorado treats patients who suffer from many different colorectal issues such as anorectal malformation, Hirschsprung disease, and severe constipation. Many of these patients suffer from fecal incontinence. The investigators have developed a week long bowel management program (BMP) that is offered every month to help these kids stay clean of stool in the underwear, by finding the perfect enema recipe to clean the colon for 24 hours. This allows one to perform an enema once every day, clean their colon, and remain free of 'accidents'. Many spina bifida patients also suffer from fecal incontinence and are referred to this BMP. The overall success rate for all patients who suffer from fecal incontinence is 95%, however the success rate for spina bifida patients is only 77%. The reason for this decrease in success is due to the lack of anal sphincter tone in spina bifida patients, which leads to inadvertent leakage and spillage of enema fluid and bowel content during enema administration. The purpose of this study is to create and test an enema administration device that improves upon current methods.
Interventions
DEVICE
Use of the foley catheter assistive device
All participants will use the foley catheter assistive device when performing their daily enema
Primary outcome measures
Feedback Survey
Time frame: 4 Weeks
All participants will complete a feedback survey at baseline to assess satisfaction with current enema administration and again after using the device to determine if the device improves enema administration process. Each question from baseline will be compared to the same question after use of device to determine if the response is more positive with device use.
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
- Poor sphincter tone
- Perform regular enemas for bowel management (due to fecal incontinence)
- 2 - 30 years old
Exclusion criteria
- Non English speakers
- Pregnant women
- Wards of state
- Decisionally challenged adults
Where
- Aurora, Colorado
Related conditions & keywords
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 Sep 3, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations