Transanal irrigation (TAI) is a treatment for bowel dysfunction, with UK approval in patients with constipation and faecal incontinence. This article is intended for health-care professionals involved in the management of patients with bowel dysfunction and describes what TAI is and the proposed method of action. It also considers the latest evidence related to the safety and efficacy of TAI. There is now a potentially overwhelming range of equipment available on prescription to deliver this treatment. The factors to consider in the appropriate selection of equipment for individual patients will be considered, alongside an algorithm for the selection of equipment to aid health professionals with this choice.