WO2017037700A1

WO2017037700A1 - Enema apparatus and method of use therefor

Info

Publication number: WO2017037700A1
Application number: PCT/IL2016/050938
Authority: WO
Inventors: Leah Miller
Original assignee: Leah Miller
Priority date: 2015-09-01
Filing date: 2016-08-26
Publication date: 2017-03-09

Abstract

The present invention provides a user self-activated system for rapid stool evacuation, the system includes an apparatus adapted to provide a water flow of a generally constant flowrate for less than a minute and a nozzle in fluid connection with the apparatus, adapted to be placed proximal to an alimentary canal exit port and to pass the water into the alimentary canal exit port to enable stool evacuation to the user in less than a minute.

Description

ENEMA APPARATUS AND METHOD OF USE THEREFOR

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates generally to enemas, and more specifically to methods and apparatus for stool evacuation.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There are many occasions on which a person may be constipated or unable to be relieved from fecal matter. There is thus a need for flushing apparatus configured for cleansing of human large intestines. Such apparatus may be required for patients with large intestinal disorders including fecal incontinency or intractable constipation. More particularly, such apparatus is required to flush fluids into the large intestine, for managing bowel movements in patients exhibiting fecal incontinency, intractable constipation or related disorders.

Some patent publications in the field include US2617416A, which describes a colonic irrigation device comprising a mixing valve, a hot water pipe connected to the mixing valve, a cold water pipe connected to the mixing valve, an upwardly extending outlet pipe connected to the mixing valve and having a downwardly directed outlet end portion, a water container arranged to receive water from said outlet end portion, an irrigation pipe connected with and leading from the lower end of the container and through which the water flows by gravity from the container, means for connecting an enema tube to said irrigation pipe, an overflow pipe connected at one end with and leading from the container adjacent its lower end. the overflow pipe being connected at its other end to a drain pipe, means for connecting with the overflow pipe an enema waste water conducting means, an injector body, an injector supply pipe connected with said water pipe and opening into the upper portion of the injector body, an injector stem within the injector body and communicating with one end of said supply pipe, a gas pipe communicating with the lower portion of the injector body for conducting gas from a source of supply into the lower portion of the injector body, a gas and -water pipe leading from the bottom of the injector body and receiving water from the other end of the injector stem, a gas separator, said gas and water pipe being connected to said separator where the gas and water are separated, a pipe connected between the separator and the irrigation pipe for conducting gas to the latter, and a pipe connected between the separator and the drain pipe.

US2008275381A relates to an improved apparatus and method for instilling fluid into a patient having an intestinal stoma thereby administering an antegrade colonic enema. The portable instillation apparatus comprising in combination: a fluid reservoir, a pump assembly, a control module, a fluid delivery line and an intestinal stoma catheter wherein the control module is operable to automatically stop fluid delivery to the intestinal stoma after a predetermined volume of fluid has been instilled at a predetermined flow rate and pressure range suitable for a particular patient. The portable instillation apparatus incorporates a unique gear pump manifold facilitating the portability, durability and reliability of the apparatus overcoming the disadvantages of traditional peristaltic pump mechanisms. The portable instillation apparatus is so engineered as to maximize the ease of transport and use of the device while also enabling a method for a patient to self-administer an antegrade colonic enema within a short time period and without intervention.

US2011087197A provides an apparatus for instilling fluid into a patient having an intestinal stoma so as to administer an antegrade colonic enema. The portable instillation apparatus comprising in combination: a fluid reservoir, a pump assembly, a control module, a fluid delivery tube and an intestinal stoma catheter wherein the control module is operable to automatically deliver a predetermined volume of instillation fluid at a specific flow rate and pressure range suitable for a particular patient. The portable instillation apparatus utilities a gear pump manifold and a robust empty reservoir detection mechanism, facilitating the portability, durability and reliability of the apparatus over-coming the disadvantages of traditional peristaltic pump mechanisms. The portable instillation apparatus maximizes the ease of transport and use of the device while also enabling a method for a patient to self- administer an antegrade colonic enema within a short time period and without intervention.

US 7666171 relates to an improved apparatus and method for instilling fluid into a patient having an intestinal stoma thereby administering an antegrade colonic enema. The portable instillation apparatus comprising in combination: a fluid reservoir, a pump assembly, a control module, a fluid delivery line and an intestinal stoma catheter wherein the control module is operable to automatically stop fluid delivery to the intestinal stoma after a predetermined volume of fluid has been instilled at a predetermined flow rate and pressure range suitable for a particular patient. The portable instillation apparatus incorporates a unique gear pump manifold facilitating the portability, durability and reliability of the apparatus overcoming the disadvantages of traditional peristaltic pump mechanisms. The portable instillation apparatus is so engineered as to maximize the ease of transport and use of the device while also enabling a method for a patient to self-administer an antegrade colonic enema within a short time period and without intervention.

There is still a need to provide improved enema apparatus and methods.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of some aspects of the present invention to provide novel systems and methods to stimulate stool evacuation.

In some embodiments of the present invention, improved methods and apparatus are provided for self-activated stimulation of stool evacuation.

In other embodiments of the present invention, a method and system is described for providing for rapid self-activated stimulation of stool evacuation.

In further embodiments of the present invention, a method and system is described for providing for rapid self-activated stimulation of stool evacuation to be performed at home.

There is thus provided according to an embodiment of the present invention, a user self-activated system for rapid stool evacuation, the system including;- a. an apparatus adapted to provide a water flow of a generally constant flowrate for less than a minute; and b. a nozzle in fluid connection with the apparatus, adapted to be placed proximal to an alimentary canal exit port and to pass the water into the alimentary canal exit port to enable an enema wash/stool evacuation to the user in the less than a minute.

Additionally, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus is at least partially housed in a trolley cabinet.

Furthermore, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus is connected at a first end to a shower hose via a first conduit and to the nozzle via a second conduit.

Moreover, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus includes flow control means to regulate flowrate of the water flow to less than 1500 ml/minute.

Further, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus includes flow control means to regulate flowrate to less than 1100 ml/minute.

Yet further, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus includes flow control means to regulate flowrate of the water flow to a pressure of less than 1.6 psi. Additionally, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus includes accessories selected from the group consisting of a suitcase, a folding stool, a three-way adapter, a disposable nozzle, a re-usable nozzle a set of instructions and combinations thereof.

Moreover, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the trolley cabinet includes an upper locked compartment and a lower open compartment.

Further, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus includes a water assembly disposed in the upper locked compartment.

Yet further, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus includes an exterior tap, fluidly connected to the water assembly.

Additionally, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the system weighs less than 15 kg and is portable.

There is thus provided according to another embodiment of the present invention, a method for user-controlled rapid enema wash/stool evacuation, the method including ;- a. providing a water flow of a generally constant flowrate for less than a minute proximal to an alimentary canal exit port to enable constant water entry into a rectum; b. stopping the water flow; and c. releasing contents of the rectum for a number of seconds thereby enable an enema wash/stool evacuation to the user in the less than a minute.

Furthermore, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the flowrate of the water is less than 1100 ml/minute.

Additionally, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the flowrate of the water is at a pressure of less than 1.6 psi.

Moreover, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the method further includes utilizing accessories selected from the group consisting of a suitcase, a folding stool, a three-way adapter, a disposable nozzle, a re-usable nozzle a set of instructions and combinations thereof.

Additionally, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the providing step takes 15-30 seconds. Importantly, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the method is conducted when the user is seated on a toilet and the releasing step is directly into the toilet.

Additionally, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the method is conducted when the user is either releasing in a sitting position on the toilet or into any other kind of vessel or in any lying position or lying down in bed and the releasing step is directly into a bedpan or releasing by going to the toilet.

Two significant purposes of some aspects of the present invention are to enable a person (1) to relieve the rectum of fecal matter when there is a feeling that there is more sitting there but does not exit on its own, (2) to be able to get this release in a very quick, convenient and no cumbersome setup whatsoever at the spur of any moment, and at the convenience of the home environment.

According to some embodiments of the present invention, the apparatus is housed in a formica-covered wood cabinet that has convenient hand bars and rolls on wheels. There is a shower hose holder attached to the side for convenient placing of the shower hose. The cabinet is arranged such that the piping is connected to the inside upper part of the cabinet that is closed permanently with magnet door latch but has a floor opening small enough for the piping to come through. The lower part of the cabinet is partially open for storing away the pipes when the unit is not in use. A quick connector air pipe protrudes and is connected to a water source.

Water flows through this pipe to a pressure regulator that is set permanently at its lowest pressure. From the regulator the water goes through a ball-valve that is preset by an external rotameter to flow one liter per 60 seconds.

From the ball-valve the water goes through a small elegant bathroom faucet that has the handle protruding on the outside of the cabinet for the user to regulate.

The bathroom faucet is connected to a shower hose that has a 316L stainless steel tip connected to its top and can be conveniently placed on the shower hose holder during and after an enema session. There is no need to refill water bags for continuous use.

Convenience, availability, uncompromised safety, relieve yourself within minutes of constipation, feeling bloated and the sensation that more is still sitting there - without leaving your home.

The kit or system of the present invention is very convenient to use either in sitting or lying position and is of a practical size for easy usage and storage. The system can be moved using the set of quality wheels and also has a carrying handle at the front for maximum comfort and adaptation to your needs and requirements.

After completing the enema procedure, discard the disposable nozzle or rinse and disinfect the nozzle if the nozzle is not disposable. Store the hoses in the compartment at the bottom of the kit to avoid safety hazards.

The system of the present invention is mechanical, not electrical. Furthermore, the system of this invention is not configured for insertion into the body, nor for provision of any medication thereto/therein. The system of the present invention is constructed and configured to enable water to slowly flow in and out of a person's rectum by placing the nozzle tip in close proximity to the anal canal.

The present invention provides a user self-activated system for rapid stimulation of stool evacuation, the system includes an apparatus adapted to provide a water flow of a generally constant flowrate for less than a minute and a nozzle in fluid connection with the apparatus, adapted to be placed proximal to an alimentary canal exit port and to pass the water into the alimentary canal exit port to enable stimulation of stool evacuation to the user in less than a minute.

The present invention will be more fully understood from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments thereof, taken together with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will now be described in connection with certain preferred embodiments with reference to the following illustrative figures so that it may be more fully understood. With specific reference now to the figures in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of the preferred embodiments of the present invention only and are presented in the cause of providing what is believed to be the most useful and readily understood description of the principles and conceptual aspects of the invention. In this regard, no attempt is made to show structural details of the invention in more detail than is necessary for a fundamental understanding of the invention, the description taken with the drawings making apparent to those skilled in the art how the several forms of the invention may be embodied in practice.

In the drawings: Fig. 1 is a simplified pictorial illustration showing a system for self- administering a stimulation of stool evacuation wash, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 2 is a simplified blown up illustration showing a system for self- administering a stimulation of stool evacuation wash, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 3 is a simplified flow chart of a method for self- administering a stimulation of stool evacuation wash, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 4 is a simplified blown-up illustration showing an apparatus for self- administering a stimulation of stool evacuation wash of the system of Fig. 1 , in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 5A is a simplified illustration showing a proximal body nozzle element in the device of Fig. 4, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 5B is a simplified cross-section illustration showing a proximal body nozzle element in the apparatus of Fig. 4, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 6 is a simplified illustration showing the proximal body nozzle element connector elements to a water pipe or hose in the apparatus of Fig. 4, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 7 is a simplified illustration of a three-way adapter connecting the system of Fig. 1 to a shower hose or bath tap, or any source of a water pipe in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 8A is a simplified illustration of a front view of an apparatus trolley in the system of Fig. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 8B is a simplified illustration of a rear view of an apparatus trolley in the system of Fig. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 9 is a simplified exploded view of an apparatus trolley in the system of Fig. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 10 is a simplified illustration of a mid -level wood plate in the apparatus trolley of Fig. 8A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and

Fig. 11 is a simplified exploded view of a proximal body arrangement with a disposable nozzle element, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

In all the figures similar reference numerals identify similar parts.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

In the detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that these are specific embodiments and that the present invention may be practiced also in different ways that embody the characterizing features of the invention as described and claimed herein.

Reference is now made to Fig. 1, which is a simplified pictorial illustration showing a system 100, for self- administering a stimulation of stool evacuation wash, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

System 100 comprises an apparatus (200a, Fig. 2) housed in an apparatus trolley 110, a folding stool 170 and a suitcase 155 for storing the trolley, apparatus and stool. When the apparatus is in use, it is connected via a water pipe or hose to a three-way adapter 120 (and/or 700, Fig. 7) and, in turn, to any suitable source of water. The three-way adapter can be connected either to any water source, or a bath tap 185 situated in a bathtub 190 with a shower head 187+195. A bath tap 185, typically situated proximally to a bathtub 190, or any other water tap not necessarily situated to a bathtub but to any other water source, is connected via a hose or tubing 130 to the adapter 120. The adapter 120 is connected at one end to a water source tap or shower hose 187 and shower head 195 if the water source is from tap 185 situated on bathtub 190 and to a water hose 130, which connects the adapter to the apparatus in the trolley. The apparatus is connected at another end thereof (not shown) to an exit water pipe or hose 140. The exit water pipe or hose has a nozzle 150 attached thereto at the far end thereof. Typically, a person 101 who needs to be relieved of constipation, for example, sits him/herself on a toilet 160 (or bidet). The person brings the nozzle into proximity to his/her backside 111, opens the tap on the front of the device until he feels full, closes tap and releases. While he releases, he puts his/her feet 121 up onto the folding stool 170 (alternatively a non-folding stool or other prop may be used. The apparatus of the present invention is conveniently housed in the apparatus trolley. Fig. 2 shows a simplified blown up illustration 200 of system 100 for self- administering an enema wash, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Trolley (also termed cabinet herein) 110 houses the apparatus 200a therein. Further details of the apparatus appear in Fig. 4. The trolley comprises a door 220 with a door lock 210. The door lock is optionally a magnetic door lock. The trolley comprises two compartments 230, 240, separated by a shelf 250/903. The upper compartment 230 houses the apparatus. The lower compartment 240 houses water tubes and pipes 130, 140 and extension pipes/tubes therefor 150 (not shown).

The trolley may be made of wood, formica plastic, fiberglass, metal, reinforced glass, stiffened cardboard, other suitable materials and combinations thereof. According to one embodiment, the trolley is 50-70 cm high 15-30 cm wide and 5- 15 cm deep. Typically, the trolley and apparatus conveniently weighs less than 20 kg, more conveniently, less than 15 kg and preferably, less than 12 kg, making it easily portable.

The details shown in the drawings of screws 204, 205, ring 206 and tap handle 207, screw head 208, door hinges 221 are intended to enable the present invention in one embodiment thereof, but should not be deemed as limiting. Many variations, permutations and alterations thereof would provide a similar trolley and apparatus, which would function within the system of the present invention.

Turning to Fig. 3, there is seen a simplified flow chart 300 of a method for self- administering an enema wash, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

In an initial connecting/checking water supply step 302, the user ensures that pipe/tube 130 is connected to the three-way adapter 120 and that the adapter handle is positioned correctly to allow movement of mains water from tap 185 into the apparatus. The user may unwind/release water/air pipe 130, from tap 185 if required, to its storage position in the lower compartment 240. The apparatus inside the upper compartment is constructed and configured to enable a water flowrate of around 1000 ml/minute to water pipe 140.

The user then sits down on a toilet seat or bidet in a sitting position step 304. Alternatively the user may be lying in bed with a bedpan (not shown), or on any other lying position, instead of a toilet, placed in a standard place. The user places the nozzle immediately to close proximity of his/her anus.

The user opens water tap 112 in an opening water tap step 306. The water flows into the user's colon and/or rectum at a generally constant flow rate. The user feels full, typically after waiting 15-30 seconds in a waiting step 308. The user then closes tap 112 in a closing step 310 and the water stops flowing. Optionally, the user hangs pipe 140 onto clasp 812. The apparatus may conveniently comprise a stopping element 114, which is typically fitted underneath tap 112. It may be around 5-10 cm immediately beneath the tap handle.

Within a few seconds, due to gravity and the position of the user, shown in Fig. 1, the contents of the user's rectum flows into the toilet/bidet/bedpan within a few second and the user is relieved of his/her waste (fecal matter and water) in a relieving step 312.

Thus, the entire process from step 302-312 may typically take less than one minute and often, less than thirty seconds. If the nozzle is disposable, the user then disposes of the nozzle and "pulls the chain" or otherwise disposes of the waste. If the nozzle is for re-use, then the user follows the instructions for washing/cleaning/disinfecting/sterilizing it.

The systems of the present invention have no electrical parts and are constructed and configured to alleviate a person from constipation/bloating/gases etc. The systems of the present invention are constructed and configured to prevent overpressure into the rectum, as well as preventing pushing fecal matter backwards up the alimentary canal. The systems may be designed for improving health and/or may be adapted to be FDA-approved medical devices.

Tap 112 is constructed and configured to enable a user to reduce the water flowrate, if required. The end pressure in nozzle 150 is less than 1.5 psi.

Reference is now made to Fig. 4, which is a simplified blown-up illustration showing an apparatus 400 for self- administering an enema wash of the system of Fig. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

The apparatus comprises a tap assembly 401 connected, at its entry side, to a male to male adapter piece 402, which, in turn, is connected to a male-to-female bend element 403. The bend element is connected to a tap 404, which is connected to another male-to-female bend element 403. This male-to-female bend element 403 is connected either to a water filter assembly 409 or to a pressure controller/reducer element (not shown, 409a). The filter assembly is connected to a male-to- female bend 405, a bushing adapter 407 and to a flexible water-air pipe/tube/hose 410/ 130 (Fig. 1). Tap 401 is connected, at its exit side to adapter 402 which in turn is connected to another male-to- female bend 405, which has a shower gasket 408 and connects to a shower hose start 408, adapted to engage water pipe/hose/tube 140 (Fig. 1).

According to one embodiment, apparatus 400 is assembled in the following order. Flexible water-air pipe/tube/hose 410 is connected to bushing adapter 407, which, in turn, is connected to male-to-female bend 405. The male-to-female bend 405 is connected to one of water filter assembly 409 or to a pressure controller/reducer element (not shown, 409a). Thereafter, the water filter assembly 409 or to a pressure controller/reducer element (not shown, 409a) is connected to a male-to-female bend element 403 which goes into tap 404, to which male-to-female bend element 403 is inserted. Thereafter, male to male adapter piece 402 is connected to male-to-female bend element 403. On its other side, the male-to-male adapter piece 402 is connected to tap 401. A stopper element 406 is pre-inserted into tap 401. A second male-to-male adapter piece 402 is attached to the tap 401 and then a second male-to-female bend 405 is connected thereto. A nut 411 is used to connect second male-to-female bend 405 to shower hose 408.

Fig. 5A shows a proximal body nozzle element 500 in the device of Fig. 4, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Reference is now made to Fig. 5B, which is a simplified cross-section illustration 550 showing the proximal body nozzle element in the apparatus of Fig. 4, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The nozzle may be disposable and made of plastic or any other disposable material. Additionally or alternatively, it may be reusable after cleaning/sterilizing. According to some embodiments, it is made of a high quality stainless steel.

Fig. 6 is a simplified illustration showing the proximal body nozzle element connector elements 600 to a water pipe or hose in the apparatus of Fig. 4, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The connector elements 600, may, for example, comprise a shower hose end 602, connected via a rubber gasket 604 to nozzle 500. Nozzle 500/550 is connected to shower hose start 408/140 at top end.

Reference is now made to Fig. 7, which is a simplified illustration of a three- way adapter 700 connecting the system of Fig. 1 to bath water tap 185 (or any other suitable water source), in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The three way adapter 120 (Fig. 1) has a handle for allowing water either to flow towards a shower head 195 via a hose 187 via port 714, or, when turned 90 degrees via an adapter 704 and quick connector 706 into tube 130. Water may enter the three way adapter via port 710 in another adapter element 702. These may be made out of plastic, stainless steel or other materials known in the art.

Fig. 8A shows a front view 800 of apparatus trolley 110 in the system of Fig. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Some further details of the trolley/cabinet are shown here. The trolley comprises four wheels 802. According to some embodiments, these are suitable for hospital use. The trolley further comprises a formica-topped wood upper panel 808. There may be a number of handles 804, 806 for moving or lifting the trolley. At the side of the trolley there is a clasp 812 for holding hose 140 in a suitable position. The stopping element 114, is typically fitted underneath tap 112. It may be around 5-10 cm immediately beneath the tap handle. According to some embodiments, stopping element 114 protrudes several millimeters more that tap 112 and has a upwardly extending vertical piece 818. The stopping element is configured to prevent damage to the tap, if/when the trolley falls over/forward. The stopping element is often made from a metal or alloy, such as stainless steel. Fig. 8B is a simplified illustration of a rear view 850 of the apparatus trolley in the system of Fig. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The trolley has a lower shelf 810 for supporting hosing/tubing, adapters, nozzles and other part, when the system is not in use. Fig. 9 shows a simplified exploded view of the apparatus trolley 110 in the system of Fig. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Many variations of this construction are deemed to be within the scope of the present invention. The embodiments presented below should not be deemed limiting. The trolley/cabinet comprises a top plate sub assembly 901, a right wall sub assembly 902, mid-plate sub assembly 903, back short plate sub-assembly 904, bottom plate subassembly 905, several wood screws 906, a left wall sub-assembly 907, a front wall sub-assembly 908, a door assembly 909 and a pin head 910. These parts are assembled, as is known in the art.

Reference is now made to Fig. 10, which is a simplified illustration of a mid - level wood plate 1000 in the apparatus trolley of Fig. 8A in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The mid -level wood plate 1000 typically comprises two orifices 1006, through which the shower hose start 408/140 and flexible hose end assembly 410/130 pass through generally perpendicularly. The plate is normally made of wood 1005, say of around 0.5-1 cm thickness, mid -level wood plate 1000 also comprises dibbles 1002, connector plates with holes 1003 and wood screws 1004. Reference is now made to Fig. 11, which is a simplified exploded view of a proximal body arrangement 1100 with a disposable nozzle element 500, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

According to some embodiments, nozzle element 500 is disposable and is made of a suitable material, such as plastic, a polymer, water-resistant cardboard or rubber. The disposable nozzle element is configured to be connected to a plastic connector element 1102. The connector element may be threaded or otherwise adapted (by snap-fit, click-fit, close fit, frictional fit or other similar configurations) to be connected to a tube 1104, typically a rubber tube. At another end of the rubber tube another plastic connector element 1102 is connected, which is in turn inserted into shower hose 140.

This proximal body arrangement 1100 enables the use of system 100 (Fig. 1) by multiple users, in a hygienic way. For example, each user receives his/her own disposable nozzle element 500 for one-off use. The disposable nozzle element 500 may be suitably wrapped or packaged, as is known in the art. Disposable nozzle elements, 500, may be sold at public toilets, hospitals, army bases, medical clinics, for example from vending machines. After use, the disposable nozzle element 500 may be disposed of in the wrapping into suitable disposal bins (not shown).

According to some embodiments, the systems of the present invention are intended for personal home use and self-administered only.

According to some other embodiments, the systems of the present invention are intended for use by medical personnel and/or assistants assisting a user.

The nozzle at the end of the water tube is to be discarded if disposable, or if not disposable, rinsed and sprayed with a disinfectant after every use. Nozzles for reuse, can be sterilized. According to some embodiments, the whole proximal body arrangement 1100 (Fig. 1 1) may be sterilized and repackaged for re-use. According to some other embodiments, some parts of the arrangement may be discarded and others sterilized for reuse. There are many use/reuse options for the whole proximal body arrangement 1100, depending on their materials of construction and cost. The examples provided herein should not be deemed limiting. The system is preferably not to be used with water at a temperature above 38° C (100° F) or below 17° C (62° F).

The nozzle of the system is not designed to be inserted into the rectum. It should be positioned at the entrance to the anus. The system is preferably to be used only with original and approved parts.

According to some embodiments, the systems of the present invention are not to be used for more than 15-60 consecutive seconds at each use. According to some further embodiments, the system should not be administered for more than two fillings at a time.

Regular maintenance for the system is important. Annual professional checkup of the system is recommended. The system is to be used in a safe and suitable environment, in a sitting position or in any lying position.

The references cited herein teach many principles that are applicable to the present invention. Therefore the full contents of these publications are incorporated by reference herein where appropriate for teachings of additional or alternative details, features and/or technical background. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details set forth in the description contained herein or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various modifications and changes can be applied to the embodiments of the invention as hereinbefore described without departing from its scope, defined in and by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A user self-activated system for rapid stool evacuation, the system comprising:- a. an apparatus adapted to provide a water flow of a generally constant flowrate for less than a minute; and b. a nozzle in fluid connection with said apparatus, adapted to be placed proximal to an alimentary canal exit port and to pass said water into said alimentary canal exit port to enable an enema wash/stool evacuation to said user in said less than a minute.

2. A user self-activated system according to claim 1, wherein said apparatus is at least partially housed in a trolley cabinet.

3. A user self-activated system according to claim 2, wherein said apparatus is connected at a first end to a shower hose via a first conduit and to said nozzle via a second conduit.

4. A user self-activated system according to claim 2, wherein said apparatus comprises flow control means to regulate flowrate of said water to less than 1500 ml/minute.

5. A user self-activated system according to claim 4, wherein said apparatus comprises flow control means to regulate flowrate to less than 1100 ml/minute.

6. A user self-activated system according to claim 2, wherein said apparatus comprises flow control means to regulate flowrate of said water to a pressure of less than 1.6 psi.

7. A user self-activated system according to claim 2, wherein said apparatus comprises accessories selected from the group consisting of a suitcase, a folding stool, a three-way adapter, a disposable nozzle, a re-usable nozzle a set of instructions and combinations thereof.

8. A user self-activated system according to claim 3, wherein said trolley cabinet comprises an upper locked compartment and a lower open compartment.

9. A user self-activated system according to claim 8, wherein said apparatus comprises a water assembly disposed in said upper locked compartment.

10. A user self-activated system according to claim 9, wherein said apparatus comprises an exterior tap, fluidly connected to said water assembly.

11. A user self-activated system according to claim 9, wherein said system weighs less than 15 kg and is portable.

12. A method for user-controlled rapid enema wash/stool evacuation, the method comprising: - a. providing a water flow of a generally constant flowrate for less than a minute proximal to an alimentary canal exit port to enable constant water entry into a rectum; b. stopping said water flow; and c. releasing contents of said rectum for a number of seconds thereby enable an enema wash/stool evacuation to said user in said less than a minute.

13. A method according to claim 12, wherein said flowrate is less than 1100 ml/minute.

14. A method according to claim 12, wherein said flowrate is at a pressure of less than 1.6 psi.

15. A method according to claim 12, wherein said method further comprises utilizing accessories selected from the group consisting of a suitcase, a folding stool, a three-way adapter, a disposable nozzle, a re-usable nozzle a set of instructions and combinations thereof.

16. A method according to claim 12, wherein said providing step takes 15-30 seconds.

17. A method according to claim 12, wherein said method is conducted when said user is seated on a toilet and the releasing step is directly into said toilet.

18. A method according to claim 12, wherein said method is conducted when said user is either releasing in a sitting position on the toilet or into any other kind of vessel or in any lying position or lying down in bed and the releasing step is directly into a bedpan or releasing by going to the toilet.