Transanal irrigation for the management of faecal incontinence and constipation: case studies

Transanal irrigation is a conservative bowel management treatment that allows washout of the lower bowel, descending colon, up to the splenic flexure, and is used as an alternative to surgery. This article gives a brief introduction of the procedure and discusses how it can be performed at home with the help of carers or community nursing teams. The author also details two case studies where the use of transanal irrigation improved patients' bowel routine and had a significant positive impact on quality of life. With appropriate patient selection, education, and follow-up, transanal irrigation supports long-term adherence and promotes patient autonomy in bowel management.