In this paper, horizon scanning techniques were used to systematically identify health technologies related to faecal incontinence (FI) in active development using the NIHR Innovation Observatory’s ScanMedicine database. We found that most late-stage trials focused on bowel management strategies, followed by strategies related to bladder and bowel dysfunction. There was limited evidence found for new drugs in the development pipeline, however, some trials evaluated the effectiveness of existing repurposed drugs. More trials are needed to address the unmet need of those with FI, particularly identifying more effective containment options. An emphasis on education for self-management and the use of more effective existing treatment and management strategies would improve patient outcomes in the short term.
Future Developments and New Technologies in the field of Faecal Incontinence: Scanning the Horizon Using Late-Stage Clinical Trial Registrations
The aim of this study was to examine how new technologies in late-stage clinical trials might address unmet patient, practitioner or caregiver need for faecal incontinence (FI) over the next 5 years