Neurogenic Bowel Management Using Transanal Irrigation by Persons with Spinal Cord Injury

Neurogenic bowel has received surprisingly little attention. Among individuals with spinal cord injury, bowel function is considered a major physical and psychological problem that stems from the severe negative impact on social life and mobility. With transanal irrigation, individuals with neurogenic bowel have received an additional tool that may simplify life and improve independence. A recent survey showed that as many as 37% of the spinal cord injury patients interviewed had not heard about transanal irrigation. It should be a high priority at spinal cord injury centers to support patients with the right tools for proper bowel management and care.