TABLE 3.

Problem‐solving in transanal irrigation (TAI)

Problem	Solution
Introduction of the catheter	Check of the patency of the anastomosis
	Exclusion of a possible stenosis
	Change the type of catheter
	Additional application of lubricant
	Hands‐on training with the therapist
Uncontrolled loss of water during TAI	Additional insufflation of the balloon
	Retraction of the catheter tip to the anus if it has been introduced too high
	Hands‐on training with the therapist
Pain during irrigation	Exclusion of anatomical problems
	Slower irrigation to avoid spasm of the colon
	Hand warm water
	Electric‐driven systems?
Missing effect of TAI	Check if toilet time has been sufficiently long
Missing satisfaction by the patient	Increase irrigation volume or repeat TAI (2–3/day)
	Addition of oral laxatives
TAI disturbs daily activities	Discuss with the patient the activities which are impaired by TAI and toilet time
	Educate patients to perform TAI at any time of the day (not only during their ‘old’ regular toilet times), in accordance with their plans (e.g. commitment early in the morning → TAI on the evening before, etc.)