Balloon inflation in biofeedback
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Analysing the impact of balloon inflated vs balloon deflated push manoeuvres in chronically constipated patients during biofeedback therapy
IRAS ID
367053
Contact name
John Gallagher
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Hull University Teaching Hospitals
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 7 months, 8 days
Research summary
Chronic constipation, particularly due to dyssynergic defecation, is common and impacts quality of life. Biofeedback therapy (BFT) is the most effective conservative treatment, teaching patients to coordinate abdominal and anal muscles during defecation. In standard practice, the rectal balloon used in high-resolution anorectal manometry (HRAM) and biofeedback is left deflated, though some centres inflate it to simulate a more natural urge to defecate. However, the efficacy of this modification has not been validated. This study aims to determine whether performing BFT with the balloon inflated to a patient’s defecatory desire volume enhances physiological coordination and patient understanding compared to the standard deflated approach.
REC name
London - Brighton & Sussex Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
26/PR/0061
Date of REC Opinion
3 Mar 2026
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion