Randomized clinical trial: timing of indwelling urethral catheter removal after transurethral resection of the prostate

Abstract

Objectives: The timing of indwelling urethral catheter (IUC) removal following transurethral resection (TURP) is controversial and depends mainly on individual clinical practice. This clinical trial aimed to evaluate early versus delayed removal of the IUC.

Patients and methods: In this clinical trial, 90 patients who underwent TURP were prospectively randomized equally into two groups: group A, early IUC removal (24h), and group B, delayed IUC removal (72h). After TURP, re-catheterization, secondary bleeding, hospital stay, Urinary tract infection, catheter-related pain, and catheter-related bladder discomfort (CRBD) were evaluated.

Results: Baseline data and perioperative characteristics were comparable between the groups. The mean length of hospital stay was longer among the patients in group B than among those in group A, 3.64 ±0.57 vs 2.83±0.43, respectively (p<0.001). There were no significant differences in re-catheterization, secondary bleeding, or UTI between groups A and B. The mean VAS score and CRBD before and after IUC removal were higher in group B than in group A (p<0.001). The mean total dose of tramadol was higher in group B than in group A (129 mg vs 45.44 mg respectively), (p<0.001).

Conclusion: Early IUC removal following TURP is safe approach with favorable clinical outcomes.