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Why use a stop-flow balloon?
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This feature allows the clinician to create a smooth tip for catheter insertion. The stop-flow balloon is the feature that permits the clinician to temporarily stop flow through the catheter so rectally administered medications can dwell in the rectum for the prescribed amount of time. |
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Will the ActiFlo Indwelling Bowel Catheter System lead to rectal tissue damage?
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In a study of 32 patients treated with this system, there were no anal mucosal abnormalities observed.1 In a separate study of 20 patients, proctoscopic exams were normal after tube removal in all cases.2 The physician prescribing the ActiFlo Indwelling Bowel Catheter must evaluate the risks and benefits of using the device for each individual patient. |
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How can we reduce odor?
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The collection bags available with the ActiFlo System contain a film which is designed to control odor associated with stool. Other helpful hints to help control odor:
Flush the drainage tubing with tap water using the flush/sampling port at least twice a day. Routinely cleanse any leakage from around the anus.
If using the drainable collection bags, cleanse the exposed end of the drainable collection bag spout before capping it. Change the drainable collection bags every seven days.
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Does the ActiFlo Indwelling Bowel Catheter System require a physician’s order?
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Yes, Federal (USA) law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physician. |
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How long can the ActiFlo Indwelling Bowel Catheter System be used?
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The system is intended for use up to 29 days. |
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Why is gravity irrigation used?
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This allows water to flow more slowly and with lower pressure than when a syringe is used to irrigate. Gravity irrigation helps prevent leakage, odor, and catheter expulsion. |
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What are the contraindications for use of this product?
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Do not use in patients having known sensitivities or allergies to the materials used in this device. Do not use if the patient’s distal rectum cannot accommodate the inflated volume of the retention cuff, or if the distal rectum/anal canal is severely strictured (e.g., secondary to tumor, inflammatory condition, radiation injury, scarring). Do not use on patients having impacted stool. Do not use on patients with a recent (less than 6 weeks old) rectal anastomosis, or a recent (less than 6 weeks old) anal or sphincter reconstruction. Do not use on patients with compromised rectal wall integrity (e.g., ischemic proctitis). |
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How often should the retention cuff be deflated, and why?
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The retention cuff volume should be verified at least every seven days. This allows you to adjust for any loss of fluid from the retention cuff. |
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What do the anchor straps do?
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The anchor straps help prevent inadvertent dislodgement and inward migration of the catheter. This helps avoid obstructed catheter flow, leakage, or expulsion. |
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What is the appropriate size catheter to use?
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The ActiFlo Indwelling Bowel Catheter is available in two sizes, 4 cm and 6 cm. The 4 cm length fits most patients; the correct size provides a tension-free fit. |
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What is the recommended retention cuff volume for patients with low sphincter tone?
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Use 35-40 mL in the retention cuff in all cases (see Instructions for Use). |
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If the ActiFlo Indwelling Bowel Catheter is expelled, can it be reinserted?
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Yes, the catheter can be washed off, checked for product integrity and reinserted, according to the Instructions for Use, as long as it’s still within 29 days of the initial insertion. It is important to investigate why the device was expelled. Check for retained stool in the rectum or other problems that may have contributed to catheter expulsion and resolve these issues. |
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How can leakage be reduced?
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Make sure the intraluminal balloon is completely deflated and the retention cuff is inflated. Apply gentle traction to “seat” the retention cuff. Be sure the transsphincteric zone is not twisted, the anchor straps are secured, the tubing is straight and free of stool, and the drainage bag is lower than the patient. Placing the bed in a slight reverse Trendelenburg position will facilitate catheter drainage.
During irrigation, if tolerated, position the patient in a slight Trendelenburg position. Avoid infusing irrigation too rapidly or using water that is too cool. Excessive leakage during use may be secondary to catheter occlusion with stool. Catheter removal, stool removal, and reinsertion may be required. Additional stool modification or more frequent irrigation (as prescribed by physician) may be required to prevent recurrence. Regular irrigations can help prevent rectal distention, which is associated with leakage. If leakage is excessive, consider discontinuing use of the ActiFlo System. |
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| 1. Kim J, et al. Clinical application of continent anal plug in bedridden patients with intractable diarrhea. Dis Colon Rectum 2001; 44:1162-1167. |
| 2. Keshava A, Renwick A, Stewart P, Pilley A. A nonsurgical means of fecal diversion: the Zassi Bowel Management System. Dis Colon Rectum 2007; 50:1017-1022. |
