Optimal duration of urinary drainage after rectal resection: a randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Colorectal Surgery
• Postoperative Care

Background:

• Voiding dysfunction is common after rectal resection, necessitating urinary drainage.
• Optimal duration for postoperative urinary drainage remains debated.
• This study addresses the optimal duration of transurethral catheterization post-rectal resection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare 1-day versus 5-day transurethral catheterization after rectal resection.
• To evaluate the incidence of urinary tract infection (UTI) and acute urinary retention (AUR).

Main Methods:

• A prospective randomized controlled trial involving 126 patients undergoing rectal resection.
• Patients were assigned to either 1-day or 5-day transurethral catheterization.
• Outcomes assessed included AUR and UTI rates.

Main Results:

• The 1-day group (n=64) had a higher incidence of AUR (25%) compared to the 5-day group (n=62, 10%).
• The 1-day group experienced significantly lower UTI rates (20%) versus the 5-day group (42%).
• Low rectal carcinoma and lymph node metastasis were risk factors for AUR after 1-day catheterization. In patients without low rectal carcinoma, AUR rates were similar, but UTI rates were lower in the 1-day group.

Conclusions:

• One day of urinary drainage is recommended for most patients following rectal resection.
• Five-day urinary drainage should be reserved for patients with low rectal carcinoma to manage specific risks.