The STRIDENT Studies
Improving Crohn’s Disease Treatment
The STRIDENT studies aim to improve treatment of the commonest complication of Crohn's disease: narrowing of the bowel (strictures). These bowel complications often necessitate surgery to remove the affected bowel. This groundbreaking research programme aims to demonstrate that intense non-surgical therapy can often heal the bowel and prevent the need for surgery.
Most patients with Crohn’s disease eventually develop complications requiring surgery. The most common complication is bowel narrowing (strictures), which can cause blockages and severe symptoms. Until now, there have been limited treatment operations beyond surgery, leading to repeated operations and potential loss of bowel function over time.
​The STRIDENT (Stricture Definition and Treatment) studies
​represent the first controlled trials worldwide to address this neglected complication. This landmark research shows that medication can reduce stricture inflammation and significantly decrease the need for surgery. The studies use advanced imaging techniques like MRI and ultrasound to monitor treatment response and identify which patients are most likely to benefit from drug therapy.
​
Beyond the original clinical trial, the research programme continues to examine long-term outcomes and includes innovative laboratory studies investigating the microbial and biological factors that influence stricture formation and treatment response. This work is providing crucial insights into the underlying mechanisms of stricturing Crohn's disease.
An expert team of researchers at St Vincent’s Hospital and The University of Melbourne, collaborating with The University of Queensland, is leading the programme. The ultimate goal is to transform the natural history of Crohn's disease by reducing the need for surgery, preventing disability, and improving quality of life through personalised medical approaches tailored to individual patients.​​
​
The STRIDENT Studies: Solving the commonest and most neglected complication of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
PROFESSOR MICHAEL KAMM
PROFESSOR OF
GASTROENTEROLOGY
The University of Melbourne and
St Vincent’s Hospital
DR. EMILY WRIGHT
GASTROENTEROLOGIST
The University of Melbourne and St. Vincent's Hospital
​
DR. BRONTE HOLT
GASTROENTEROLOGIST
St Vincent’s Hospital, Melbourne
DR. JULIEN SCHULBERG
GASTROENTEROLOGIST
The University of Melbourne,
and St. Vincent's Hospital
ALYSON ROSS
RESEARCH NURSE SPECIALIST
St. Vincent's Hospital
DR. AMY HAMILTON
CLINICAL SCIENTIST
University of Melbourne,
St Vincent’s Hospital