Time to Return of Bowel Function Following Perioperative Probiotics in Colorectal Cancer Surgery (PICCS-1)

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating whether giving probiotics around the time of surgery can help reduce the rates of postoperative ileus, a condition where the bowel doesn't work properly after surgery, in patients undergoing colorectal cancer surgery. Previous studies and meta-analyses have shown that probiotics may speed up the return of bowel function and reduce symptoms like abdominal bloating after gastrointestinal surgery. However, probiotics are not yet routinely used for colorectal cancer surgery in Singapore, prompting this trial to evaluate their effects in this setting. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: no nutritional supplementation, nutritional supplementation without probiotics, or nutritional supplementation with probiotics. The nutritional supplements involved include products such as Nestle Isocal and Nestle Boost Optimum. The study is designed with quadruple masking to reduce bias and will compare the time to return of bowel function among groups. During the study, participants will be monitored for outcomes including the time to first bowel movement and time to passing gas within 14 days after surgery. Researchers will also track adverse events, infections, and length of hospital stay for up to 30 days post-surgery. Participants must be on an early recovery after surgery (ERAS) pathway and able to provide consent. The study will last from the start of treatment through 30 days after surgery, allowing detailed observation of recovery and safety.

Time to Return of Bowel Function Following Perioperative Probiotics in Colorectal Cancer Surgery