Rectal Ozone

Rectal ozone (rectal insufflation) is a form of medical ozone therapy in which an oxygen–ozone gas mixture is introduced into the bowel through the rectum with a thin catheter. Although the idea may seem unfamiliar at first, the procedure is simple, quick and minimally invasive. It is used as a complementary approach, with two intended effects: a local effect on the bowel wall and a systemic effect, as some of the reaction products are absorbed into the circulation. It is also sometimes used as an alternative to major autohemotherapy for people in whom vein access is difficult or who are afraid of needles.

Ozone therapy does not replace medical treatment. Any bowel complaint should first be properly evaluated, and for conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease) rectal ozone may only be considered as a supportive measure alongside the treatment plan of the patient’s gastroenterologist. The scientific evidence for its various uses is limited and individual responses differ. At our clinic in Beşiktaş, Istanbul, rectal ozone is planned individually after a medical assessment, with full respect for privacy.

What Is Rectal Ozone and How Is It Thought to Work?

A measured oxygen–ozone mixture is introduced into the bowel through a thin, soft catheter. Its proposed effects fall into two groups:

• Local effects: ozone is a strong antimicrobial agent and is thought to help reduce harmful microorganisms and support the balance of the gut flora. Anti-inflammatory and tissue-supporting effects on the bowel lining have also been described.
• Systemic effects: the rectal lining has a rich blood supply. Reaction products formed when ozone meets the bowel lining are absorbed and enter the circulation through the portal vein. As with major autohemotherapy, these are thought to stimulate the body’s own antioxidant enzymes, support oxygen delivery and modulate the immune response.

Where Is It Used?

In clinical practice, rectal ozone is used as a complementary approach in areas such as:

• Bowel-related complaints – such as bloating and irritable bowel symptoms – after appropriate medical evaluation, and as a supportive measure in inflammatory bowel disease alongside, never instead of, the gastroenterologist’s treatment.
• General well-being and fatigue, as a systemic ozone therapy option for people in whom major autohemotherapy is not practical because of difficult veins or fear of needles.

Rectal ozone is not suitable for everyone. Active or significant rectal bleeding must be investigated first, and conditions such as G6PD enzyme deficiency (favism) and pregnancy are reasons not to use ozone therapy.

How Is Rectal Ozone Performed?

Consultation and Preparation

I listen to your complaints, medical history and especially your digestive history, and decide whether the treatment is appropriate and safe for you. The purpose, how it works, how it is performed and possible effects are explained clearly. Before the session, the bowel should ideally be empty so the gas can make good contact with the bowel wall; a simple enema at home a few hours beforehand, or at the clinic, may be recommended.

The Session: A Few Gentle Minutes

You are taken to a private treatment room and asked to lie on your side with your knees drawn up slightly:

1. Preparation: the oxygen–ozone mixture is drawn from a medical ozone generator into a special bag or large syringe at the dose and volume set for you (usually between 100 and 300 ml).
2. Catheter: a very thin, soft, single-use sterile catheter is attached, lubricated with gel and gently inserted only a few centimetres (2–3 cm) into the rectum. It is not painful; at most you feel a light touch.
3. Gas delivery: the gas is introduced very slowly over about 1–2 minutes. You may feel slight wind or bloating, which usually passes quickly as the gas is absorbed.
4. Finishing: the catheter is removed. The whole procedure takes less than 5 minutes. You rest lying down for about 10–15 minutes so the gas can be absorbed, then return to your day.

After the Session and Courses

No special aftercare or restrictions are needed. Rectal ozone is usually given as a course – often 2–3 sessions a week, about 10–20 sessions in total depending on the goal. Some people report relief from bloating and wind and improved energy, but effects vary from person to person, and the treatment should always be seen as a complement to conventional medical care.

This page is for general information. Suitability, possible side effects and expected results are assessed at a medical consultation; results vary between individuals.