RecruitingNot ApplicableInterventional

Whole gut transit time measurement using MRI in constipation

This study is testing a new and safer way to measure how long it takes for food to travel through the gut in people aged 7 and over who have long-term constipation. Currently, doctors use X-rays, which involve radiation, but this new method uses special capsules called TransiCap and MRI scans, which are safe and don't use radiation. These small capsules contain a liquid that shows up clearly on MRI, allowing doctors to track their journey through the intestines. Taking part involves swallowing these capsules over three days and attending three short visits, including two MRI scans. Your participation could help make this new, safer test available for others in the future.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Not Applicable

Sponsor

Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust

Enrolment target

Start

01 May 2026

Estimated completion

30 Sep 2027

Performance of the TransiCap device as a method for obtaining whole gut transit time in Patients (Age-7 years old and above) with Chronic Constipation.

What is this study about?

This study is investigating a new way to understand why some people have long-term constipation. Sometimes, constipation happens because food takes too long to move through the digestive system. Knowing how fast or slow this journey is can help doctors choose the best treatment for you.

Currently, doctors use X-rays to measure this 'transit time,' but X-rays use radiation, which isn't ideal, and they don't always give the clearest pictures. Researchers have developed a new method using special, tiny capsules called TransiCap. These capsules are easy to swallow and contain a liquid that glows brightly during an MRI scan. An MRI is a common and safe scan that uses magnets and radio waves to create detailed images inside your body without any radiation.

By tracking these capsules with MRI, doctors can see exactly how they move through your intestines. This helps them understand your constipation without the need for X-rays. While this study won't offer a specific treatment, your involvement is really important. It will help make this new, safer way of measuring gut transit time available for many more people with constipation in the future.

Key takeaways

New way to measure gut movement for constipation.
Uses safe capsules and MRI scans, not X-rays.
For people aged 7 and over with long-term constipation.
Involves swallowing capsules and attending 3 visits.
Helps improve future diagnosis without direct personal benefit.
Capsules are safe and pass naturally.

Who may be eligible?

This study is for people aged 7 years and older who have been diagnosed with long-term, or chronic, constipation. You should be able to attend all study appointments and follow the study instructions. If you're under 16, you'll need to agree to take part, and a parent or guardian will need to give their permission too.

There are certain reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to get pregnant during the study. Also, if you've had major surgery on your digestive system, have certain bowel conditions, or have medical implants that aren't safe for MRI scans, you won't be able to participate. It's also important that you don't have trouble swallowing capsules or lying still for short periods.

Your study doctor will discuss all these points with you to make sure the study is a safe and suitable option. They will also let your GP know you are taking part.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 7 years old or older?
Do you have a diagnosis of long-term (chronic) constipation?
Do you feel you can attend all planned study visits?
Do you have any metal implants or devices in your body that might affect an MRI scan (like a pacemaker)?
Are you able to swallow small capsules without difficulty?
Are you pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant during the study period?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you'll attend three study visits. The first visit, called the baseline visit, might be at the hospital or could happen remotely over the phone or video call. The next two visits will be at an MRI unit for your scans.

The main part of the study involves swallowing 20 tiny TransiCap capsules each day for three days (a total of 60 capsules). You can swallow them with liquids, smoothies, or yoghurt to make it easier. After swallowing the capsules, you'll have an MRI scan on Day 5 and another on Day 28. These scans will track how the capsules have moved through your body. We will also ask you to fill in some questionnaires throughout the study. The total duration of your active participation will be around four weeks.

Potential risks and benefits

While we can't guarantee any direct health benefits for you from taking part, your contribution is incredibly valuable. It will help researchers develop this new test, which could benefit many other people with constipation in the future by offering a safer way to understand their condition. There's a very small risk of choking or aspirating (when something goes down the wrong pipe) when swallowing anything, including these capsules. To minimise this, we cannot include people who have swallowing difficulties. The capsules are made from a safe material, won't break down, and will pass out naturally. In the unlikely event of aspiration, they are designed to remain intact and can be safely removed. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and it will not affect your usual medical care.

Locations (3)

Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust - Queen's Medical Centre Campus
City only
Nottingham, England
Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children
Approximate
London, England
University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
City only
London, England

Common questions

What is the main goal of this study?

The main goal is to test a new and safer way to measure how fast food moves through the gut in people with long-term constipation, using special capsules and MRI scans instead of X-rays.

Are the TransiCap capsules safe to swallow?

Yes, the capsules are tiny, made from medically safe materials, won't break down inside your body, and will pass out naturally after a few days.

What is an MRI scan and is it safe?

An MRI scan uses magnets and radio waves to create detailed images inside your body without using radiation. It is generally very safe, but people with certain metal implants cannot have one.

How many times will I need to visit the hospital?

You will have three study visits in total. The first might be remote, and the next two will be in person for your MRI scans.

Will I get any treatment for my constipation in this study?

This study is focused on testing a new measurement method, not a new treatment. We cannot promise any direct treatment benefits, but your participation helps improve future care for others.

How to find out more

Soham Mukherjee

soham.mukherjee@nottingham.ac.uk +44 7585984322 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.