Colostomy Irrigation: Harmful or Helpful? (ThorpeU16SF)

This PhD aims to examine gastrointestinal function and quality of life in people with a colostomy who use colostomy irrigation.

Approximately 65,000 people in the UK have a colostomy (a surgically created opening of the large bowel on to the abdomen), with approximately 6,500 permanent colostomies formed each year1. Many people with a colostomy carry out daily colostomy irrigation (CI), washing out the large bowel via the colostomy with water to prevent residual matter being discharged from the colostomy.

A clear clinical need drives this PhD project. CI can enhance quality of life2,3,4 and is safe in the short-term5. However, clinicians recommending and teaching CI have no evidence-based understanding of the long-term association between CI, gastrointestinal function and quality of life. It is possible that gastrointestinal function is disturbed, with the potential for decreased quality of life in those who cease CI over time. Study findings will provide valuable information to enable patients to make informed decisions about using CI. Dr Gabrielle Thorpe, who has a strong clinical background and research experience in colorectal surgery and stoma care, will supervise the project.

Methods & Training
The three-year mixed-methods project will provide an opportunity for the student to explore and refine project objectives and receive training and experience in a range of health research methods. Activities/study objectives may include:
1. Research proposal development.
2. Systematic review of the literature investigating the impact of CI on quality of life and gastrointestinal function.
3. Obtaining and analysing retrospective health record data to identify potential long-term benefits and harms of different bowel management options in colostomy care.
4. A series of observational studies using quantitative and qualitative methods to identify health priorities and long-term outcomes in people using CI.
5. Development of a patient-reported outcome to use in future CI research.