Types of Colonic Irrigation equipment explained.

There are two types of colonic machines that are commonly used today. Various existing colonic clinics may be employing either one or both. One equipment, the closed- tube system, otherwise known as the Closed System. The other is an open-basin system, more commonly known as the Open System.

With the Closed System, water is allowed to flow in to the colon through one of the two hoses connected to a tube that is inserted into the rectum, called a Speculum. The water pressure can be regulated so as not to inconvenience the patient as well as cause any damage to the organs. The second hose is used to remove the water and wastes from the colon, pass through an illuminated glass viewing tube that enables viewing of the eliminated wastes, and finally into the sewer system.

With a closed unit, a specialist is with the individual for the entire irrigation session.

The Open System on the other hand has a treatment table that has a built-in basin that is plumbed directly to the sewer system. The water is introduced to the colon through the rectum, using a smaller tube that is as big as a pencil. The water can also be regulated just as like in the Closed System.

An open unit can mean that patients are left alone for most of the procedure and must manoeuvre themselves onto a speculum to start the irrigation.


Contrary to the impressions most people are likely to hold regarding colonic irrigation, the procedure is not at all messy nor smelly. Moreover, patients need not concern themselves about decency issues because both equipment’s are designed in a way that privacy and dignity are preserved at all times.