Journal of General Practice

An Angled Stick Colonic Irrigation Device for the Bowel Management Programs in Patients with Impaired Bowel Function

Abstract

Hiroyuki Kayaba, Hiroaki Yoshino, Masamichi Itoga, Keiya Kojima and Norihiro Saito

Objective: Retrograde colonic irrigation is a treatment of choice for severe defecation disorders accompanied by congenital disorders such as anal malformations and spina bifida; however, it requires skills, effort and enough space. With the aim of making retrograde colonic irrigation easier and comfortable, we made a self-help colonic irrigation device applicable for these patients. Methods: An angled stick colonic irrigation device was made for comfortable retrograde colonic irrigation. Angulated handle colonic irrigation system was trialled by seven preschool and school age patients including four patients with spina bifida and three patients with congenital ano-rectal anomaly. Results: Four out of seven patients operated the angulated handle colonic irrigator well. The colonic irrigation device enabled the patients with severe defecation disorders to hold the cone tip securely in place and prevented backflow and contamination. Conclusion: The angulated handle colonic irrigator may help retrograde colonic irrigation more comfortable and easier in selected patients with spina bifida or ano-rectal malformations.