A-tam®
A-Tam® anal tampons for faecal incontinence are manufactured in various shapes and sizes. They are made of polyvinyl alcohol (foam), which is toxicologically and dermatologically safe. Individual sizes are possible by arrangement.
Cylindrical tampon
Used when the sphincter still has a residual function, but the sealing and holding function is not guaranteed due to insufficient formation
Concave tampon
Used when the sphincter muscle is convex (normal anatomy). The waisted shape therefore allows good sealing and holding function
Spherical tampon
Used when there is no residual function of the muscle tissue. The spherical tip seals the area where stool collects (ampulla recti) similar to a ball valve
Spiral tampon
With its grooved surface structure, this tampon offers optimal support in cases of mild to moderate diarrhoea. Excessive gas pressure is dissipated by grooves on the surface
Conical tampon
Closes the rectum in a similar way to a ball valve, seals the anal canal due to its thickening in the middle part and adapts optimally to the anatomy due to its taper
Convex tampon
This shape prevents uncontrolled bowel movements and activates the sphincter muscle if residual function is present. The convex-shaped tampon is also used in cases of severely regressed muscle tissue.
Proctology tampon
Used in the post-operative phase (haemorrhoids, plastic reconstruction of the anal canal, etc.)
Product features
● discreet
● odour-preventing
● invisible
● pressure free
● easy to use
At the beginning of the therapy, we recommend the so-called starter assortment, which we have pre-sorted according to age based on experience for:
● Adults
● Adolescents
● Children
● Anal atresia (extra small sizes)
Accessories for A-Tam® anal tampons
Anal securing device
Self-adhesive due to latex-free adhesive. Additional securing device to prevent the tampon from sliding out when the patient is active (e.g. wheelchair sports).
Applicators
For better insertion of the anal tampon, which is unstable when wet.
Important notes
Anal hygiene is an essential measure to maintain health. This includes changing the tampon 3 times a day when using round-the-clock care, careful cleaning of the anal area from the outside (lukewarm water with light soapy water, disposable gloves), drying well and applying cream if necessary. When cleaning, avoid injuries from fingernails or other hard objects. In case of problems, please consult the attending physician.
Notes/recommendations
• The procedure is similar to that for a suppository (suppositories)
• The tampons are intended for single use.
• The insertion aid (applicator) can be used several times.
• Empty the bowel before insertion.
• Use toilet training to get the bowel used to a constant emptying time.
• Start with small sizes when using for the first time.
• If necessary, coat the spike of the applicator with Vaseline - easy to loosen.
• Wait for the pinch reflex (approx. 15 to 20 seconds).*
• Remove the tampon after a maximum of 6 to 8 hours.
• The tampon is removed from the anal canal by pulling the retraction thread.
• If the retraction thread breaks despite continuous checks when removing the tampon and you are unable to pull the tampon out as a result, please consult the doctor.
* This reflex no longer occurs after an acclimatisation period of about 5 to 6 weeks
Anal incontinence
The following causes can trigger faecal incontinence:
- age-related incontinence
- stroke
- Alzheimer's disease
- multiple sclerosis
- Brain tumour
- Paraplegia (tetraplegia)
- Spina bifida aperta
- Haemorrhoid surgery
(because sensitive mucous membrane of the intestine is removed)
- Diarrhoea
- Rectal prolapse
(protrusion of the sensitive intestinal mucosa to the outside)
- Colitis (inflammation of the large intestine)
- Benign and malignant tumours, tumour surgery
- Fistula rupture
- Perineal tear during birth
(if the sphincter muscle is also injured)
- Infiltrating abscesses -
- Pelvic floor prolapse
(frequent symptom of old age due to weakness of the connective tissue and degeneration of the pelvic muscles, operations on the uterus)
- Overstretching due to constipation
- Congenital malformation (anal atresia)
- Crohn's disease
Medication or psychological disorders can also be the cause of faecal incontinence