Colostomy irrigations: mechanism guidelines and considerations.

Colostomy irrigation is most often indicated for the control of bowel function in a select population of patients. Irrigation of an ostomy may also be necessary to prepare to bowel prior to surgery or diagnostic testing, to alleviate constipation or impaction or to relieve a food blockage at the fascial opening of an ileostomy. To achieve a successful outcome with irrigation procedures, the practitioner must carefully consider the anatomy and physiology of the intestine as well as appreciate the patient's history, physical capability and unique situation.