The use of radio-opaque markers and abdominal X-ray is the standard method for determining colonic transit time (CTT). However, when there are deviations in the intake of these markers by participants in clinical trials it is desirable to improve observations by introducing corrections, where possible. To date, there is no standard procedure to adjust for such deviations. This report proposes a series of alternatives based on possible scenarios for deviations from the intended intake of radio-opaque markers. The proposed method to correct for missed or delayed consumption of radio-opaque markers can help to increase the accuracy of the CTT measurements in clinical trials.
Keywords: Colonic transit time; Gastroenterology; Gut transit time; Radio-opaque marker; X-ray.