Anal plug

Medical device sometimes used to treat fecal incontinence

An anal plug (anal tampon or anal insert) is a medical device that is often used to treat fecal incontinence, the accidental passing of bowel moments, by physically blocking involuntary loss of fecal material. Fecal material such as feces are solid remains of food that does not get digested in the small intestines; rather, it is broken down by bacteria in the large intestine. Anal plugs vary in design and composition, but they are typically single use, intra anal, disposable devices made out of soft materials to contain fecal material and prevent it from leaking out of the rectum. The idea of an anal insert for fecal incontinence was first evaluated in a study of 10 participants with three different designs of anal inserts. Colostomy bags are bags that collect feces from their intestines through a surgically created hole on a person's stomach. Children with certain conditions, including spina bifida and anal atresia, may struggle with leaks even after physical therapy and other interventions, so they may benefit from using anal plugs. Spina bifida is a birth defect where a part of the spinal cord is not surrounded by the vertebrae; either the spinal cord is still in the back, just not surrounded by the vertebral bones, or it can be bulging out in a sac. Anal atresia is another birth defect where the rectum and/or anus is deformed: fecal incontinence is a side effect. The one common feature of people who use anal plugs is they all experience fecal incontinence, which is both uncomfortable and embarrassing. Some people may use it temporarily during certain events or while they have certain temporary medical conditions, such as women recovering from childbirth; others may need to use anal plugs for the rest of their lives. Others may opt to also use perineal pads or undergarments such as diapers to prevent the soiling of oneself. Management of fecal incontinence is very person dependent, as anally inserted devices may not be for everyone.

The plug allows individuals control over their bowel movements and may decrease negative side effects due to leakage. People have reported suffering from fewer of anal rashes, decreased soreness, and improved hygiene. Anal plugs can also be an affordable option: some countries with universal healthcare, like Germany, buy anal plugs for people who need them. A 2001 study found that a majority of people could not tolerate an anal plug due to discomfort. Although only 20% decided to continue using the plug on a regular basis, anal plugs were generally successful at controlling fecal incontinence. Since anal plugs are considered an invasive strategy, they can result in pain, soreness, irritation, fecal urgency, and societal embarrassment. There is not a lot of evidence reported on the efficacy on the different types of anal plugs, so the choice of plug can be up to people and their doctors. Due to the complexity of fecal incontinence, the use of anal plugs are not well defined in guidelines and treatment pathways, which decrease the comfortability of medical professional on prescribing and usage of anal plugs. For all plugs that become stuck in the rectum, it is recommended to see a doctor if it does not come out in the next bowel movement.

The Peristeen (formerly Conveen) Anal Plug produced by Coloplast is a disposable polyurethane insert coated in a water soluble film. When exposed to warmth and moisture in the anal canal, the film dissolves, allowing the plug to expand. It has a conical tip and a cord to tug on for removal. It comes in two sizes, and is inserted similarly to a suppository. This plug may remain inside the rectum for up to 12 hours.

The polyvinyl alcohol anal tampons A tam produced by Med SSE System in Germany come in various sizes and shapes including cone, cylindrical, spiral, concave, convex, and ball headed. The different shapes can address different concerns, based on anal sphincter muscle function, remaining muscle tissue, and gassiness. The plug should be soaked in warm water before inserted, similar to some rectal suppositories. While the plugs are single use, the applicator may be used multiple times. Changing out the plug three times a day every 6 8 hours and anal hygiene are also recommended. A prescription is needed for this product.

Renew Inserts are single use silicone plugs that come in two sizes and require a prescription. The large size is recommended for adults, while the regular size may be used for children and young adults. Each plug is made of two attached disks and comes connected to a fingertip applicator which is disposed after insertion. The top disk blocks the stool, while the bottom disk secures the insert in place to prevent displacement. It can be removed either by pulling it out or through defecation, removing the concern of losing the plug in the anal canal. The catheter is inserted into the anal canal and the balloon cuff is inflated with water or air through a syringe attached to the exposed portion of the catheter. Once inflated, the exposed end of the catheter is pulled until the balloon cuff is met with resistance within the anus. An infrared photo interruptor sensor in the catheter senses stool in the anal canal, sending a notification to a pager. To remove the device, the catheter is cut to allow the balloon to deflate before pulling it out. Each device is made for single use only.

The SURGISPON anal tampon is made of a gamma sterilized gelatin sponge and, unlike the previously mentioned products, is used to stop bleeding in anal and rectal surgeries and post surgery bleeding and pain. The sponge can absorb up to 45 times its weight, liquefying and eventually being excreted in a bowel movement within 1 2 days. It also has an opening in the middle for gas to escape, and may be used as a carrier for delivery of antibiotics, thrombin, or chemotherapeutics. It is inserted either dry or wet, but for surgeries, it is inserted dry using a proctoscope.

Anal cleansing is the practice of proper sanitization and maintaining healthy hygiene in a person's rectal area. It is usually done post defecation. From a science perspective, it helps prevent pathogen exposure, which could lead to infections or diseases. The cleansing process involves rinsing the rectal cavity with water and usually wiping the area with toilet paper or baby wipes. Sometimes, a hand is used for rubbing the area while rinsing it with water. Other times, bidet system could be used instead. Some of the key benefits include:

It helps prevent infections maintaining anal hygiene reduces the risk of fungal infections and other bacteria entering the anal area, and eventually entering the whole body. Prevent UTIs urinary tract infection is a urinary infection in any part of the urinary system. By ensuring proper wiping and good anal hygiene, the risk of bacteria spreading from the anal area to the urinary tract will be reduced. Prevent anal fissures anal fissures are very small tears around the anus. This could be very uncomfortable and painful to an individual. Assuring proper hygiene of the anal area will help reduce the chance of fissures. Minimize odor; unpleasant smell having a regular cleansing routine of the anal area will help regulate odor with fecal matter. Assisting in sexual health and products anal hygiene is very important for individuals that are sexually active, as well as for those using anal products. It helps reduce the risk of a sexual transmitted infections (STIs); an infection transmitted through sexual contact, and maintain comfort during activities.