Transanal irrigation can be split into two different types: high and low-volume TAI. This refers to how much water is used during the irrigation. Low-volume systems deliver less than 250 ml of water to the bowel, whilst high-volume systems work with more than 250 ml1.
What is low-volume TAI?
Low-volume systems often consist of a small water reservoir attached to a cone. The cone is then inserted into the bottom and the water is delivered. Due to their low volume, these irrigation systems usually clean out the rectum1. They are also compact, making them more suitable to transport and use when away from home.
What is high-volume TAI?
As the name suggests, high-volume devices deliver more water to the bowel, and can therefore empty the rectum and parts of the colon1. High-volume devices provide a deeper irrigation, enabling some people to remain continent for up to 2 days at a time2.
These systems are generally larger; they use a bigger water bag which is connected to a tube with a cone or balloon catheter at the end through which the water is pumped. As more water is used in this form of irrigation, the process often takes a little longer.
What TAI is right for me?
Performing a low-volume irrigation may be a suitable treatment option if you find you leak stool during your day, or find you experience post-defaecatory soiling after using the toilet. It can also support people who struggle to completely pass stool or have other evacuation difficulties3.
Importantly, a low-volume system only cleans out the rectum. High-volume TAI is needed to empty more of the bowel1.
How will my doctor help?
If you are living with bowel issues, your healthcare professional may suggest TAI. At this point, they will then assess which type of TAI is appropriate to help you manage your symptoms, as well as work with you to ensure you are trained in using your device.
Consultation with your healthcare provider must take place before either high or low-volume systems are used.
The table below provides a summary of the differences between high and low-volume TAI.
| High-volume TAI | Low-volume TAI | |
|---|---|---|
| Water volume | >250 ml1 | <250 ml1 |
| Evacuates stool from… | The rectum, sigmoid colon, and descending colon | The rectum |
| Peristeen® product |
Peristeen Plus | Peristeen Light |
If you have further questions, reach out to your healthcare professional for medical support. Coloplast Care is also here to support you with educational information through our website, emails, and phone support.
- Magnuson FS, Christensen P, Krassioukov A, et al. Neurogenic Bowel Dysfunction in Patients with Spinal Cord Injury and Multiple Sclerosis—An Updated and Simplified Treatment Algorithm. Journal of Clinical Medicine. 2023;12(6971).
- Emmanuel AV, Krogh K, Bazzocchi G, et al. Consensus review of best practice of transanal irrigation in adults. Spinal Cord. 2013;51:732–738.
- Emmanuel A, Collins B, Henderson M, et al. Development of a decision guide for transanal irrigation in bowel disorders. Gastrointestinal Nursing. 2019;17(7):24-30
