A rectal tube is a flexible, hollow medical device inserted into the rectum to manage various gastrointestinal conditions. It primarily facilitates the removal of substances from the bowel or, in some cases, introduces fluids or medications.
Primary Medical Applications
A primary application of a rectal tube is to relieve excessive gas or flatulence, especially for patients with bloating and discomfort. This is often relevant for bedridden patients, those recovering from surgery, or individuals with conditions causing gas accumulation. The tube creates a pathway for trapped intestinal gas to escape, reducing abdominal pressure and pain.
Rectal tubes are also used for bowel decompression, relieving pressure in the colon caused by factors like partial bowel obstructions or acute colonic pseudo-obstruction (Ogilvie’s syndrome). The tube allows gas and sometimes liquid stool to pass, preventing complications. For patients with severe constipation or fecal impaction, a rectal tube can facilitate stool evacuation.
The device also manages liquid or semi-liquid stool, especially in patients with fecal incontinence. By channeling stool into a collection bag, the rectal tube helps maintain hygiene, protect skin integrity, and prevent contamination, benefiting immobile or critically ill patients. Less commonly, rectal tubes administer certain medications directly into the colon, offering an alternative route when oral administration is not feasible. This method allows for rapid absorption and can bypass the liver’s initial metabolism for some drugs.
Mechanism of Action
A rectal tube’s effectiveness comes from its design, allowing passive drainage of lower bowel contents. It functions as a direct conduit for gas or liquid stool to exit the body. The tube’s flexible material, often medical-grade silicone or PVC, ensures comfortable insertion and conformity to rectal anatomy.
Natural bodily pressures within the colon, combined with gravity, assist in the movement of gas and liquid through the tube. Many rectal tubes feature a rounded, atraumatic tip and often include two lateral eyes or openings near the tip for efficient drainage and to prevent blockages. Some specialized tubes, particularly for fecal management, incorporate an inflatable balloon at the tip. Once inflated, this balloon secures the tube in place and prevents leakage, ensuring continuous decompression or collection.
Patient Considerations
A healthcare professional performs rectal tube insertion, which is generally a quick procedure. While some patients may experience brief discomfort, the tube’s flexible, soft material maximizes tolerability. Patients often experience relief as the tube alleviates pressure and pain from trapped gas or stool.
A rectal tube is typically intended for temporary use, and its duration varies depending on the medical need. For gas decompression, it may be used for short periods, often up to 24-48 hours. However, some fecal management systems that incorporate a rectal tube can remain in place for longer, with some designs approved for up to 28 or 29 days, although prolonged use is carefully monitored due to potential risks like mucosal damage. Healthcare providers continuously monitor the tube’s effectiveness and the patient’s overall condition to determine the appropriate duration of use and when it can be safely removed.