Which position is best for a rectal exam? study seeks answer

NCT ID NCT01727388

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Amiens Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026

Summary

This study compared two common positions for a digital rectal exam: lying on your side (lateral decubitus) versus lying on your back (supine). The goal was to see which position allows doctors to perform a more complete exam. The study involved 320 men with conditions like colon cancer, rectal bleeding, or hernia. Results could help guide doctors in choosing the best position for this important exam.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to: If successful, this could help doctors choose the best position for a more thorough rectal exam, potentially improving detection of issues.
What could go wrong: This is a completed study, so results are available. However, it only included men, so findings may not apply to everyone.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

colon carcinoma colonic neoplasm colorectal neoplasm diverticulitis Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage Hernia hiatus hernia rectal cancer rectal neoplasm

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

COLON CANCER DIVERTICULITIS HERNIA RECTAL BLEEDING UPPER RECTUM CANCER

Contacts and locations

Locations

Amiens Universitary Hospital

Amiens, France
Beauvais General Hospital

Beauvais, France

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