Can a nerve zap cure Kids' stubborn constipation?

NCT ID NCT04713085

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested two ways to stimulate sacral nerves in 48 children aged 2-17 with severe constipation and fecal incontinence that didn't improve with standard care. One group got an implanted nerve stimulator, the other a non-invasive patch. The goal was to see if either approach could reduce pain, improve bowel movements, and cut down on accidents.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

sacral nerve stimulation (implanted or external patch)

What this could lead to

If successful, this could offer a new option for children with severe constipation and fecal incontinence that hasn't improved with standard treatments.

What could go wrong

This is a small, completed trial with only 48 children. The results may not apply to all kids, and the invasive implant carries surgical risks.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anorectal malformation Anorectal Malformations caudal regression sequence constipation disorder Hirschsprung disease imperforate anus

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Pediatric Surgery

    Erlangen, Bavaria, 91054, Germany