Understanding the Peristeen Transanal Irrigation System

What Is the Peristeen System?

The Peristeen transanal irrigation system is a medical device used to help individuals manage fecal incontinence and chronic constipation. Also known as rectal irrigation, it is available in several versions, including Peristeen, Peristeen Plus, and Peristeen Light.

How Peristeen Works

The system introduces lukewarm tap water into the rectum through a rectal catheter while the user is seated on the toilet. This stimulates the bowel and flushes out stool, effectively emptying the lower bowel. A successful irrigation can help prevent leakage and constipation for up to two days.

Important Information for Patients and Caregivers

Getting Started

A qualified healthcare professional must assess whether Peristeen is appropriate. If recommended, the first irrigation must be supervised by a trained professional to ensure proper technique and safety.

Establishing a Routine

Consistency matters: Use the system daily or every other day at the same time.
Be patient: It may take up to 12 weeks to establish an effective routine.

Using the System

Water Temperature: Use lukewarm water (36–38°C / 96.8–100.4°F). The Peristeen Plus bag includes a temperature indicator.
Catheters: Single‑use only. Options include balloon and cone catheters; balloon catheters inflate to stay in place.
Travel: The system is portable. Use bottled or cooled boiled water if local tap water is unsafe.

Support Resources: Coloplast Care provides patient support, and child‑friendly tools such as the “Poo Game” help younger users learn the process.

Who Can Use Peristeen?

The system is suitable for children and adults with fecal incontinence and/or chronic constipation. It is commonly used by individuals with neurogenic bowel dysfunction due to:

Spinal cord injury
Spina bifida
Multiple sclerosis
Low Anterior Resection Syndrome (LARS)

Important Safety Considerations

Contraindications: Peristeen should NOT be used by individuals with:

Known anal or colorectal stenosis
Colorectal cancer
Recent anal or colorectal surgery
Acute inflammatory bowel disease

A thorough medical evaluation is essential before beginning treatment.

Potential Complications

Serious complications such as bowel perforation are rare but possible. It is critical to follow all instructions from healthcare professionals and the manufacturer.