RCT of urethral versus suprapubic catheterization

Area of Science:

• Urogynecology
• Surgical Patient Care

Background:

• Pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence are common conditions in women.
• Surgical interventions often require post-operative bladder management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare intermittent urethral catheterization with indwelling suprapubic catheterization in women undergoing surgery for pelvic floor disorders.
• To evaluate post-operative outcomes including hospital stay, return to voiding, and infection rates.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial was conducted in a tertiary referral urogynaecology unit.
• Women were randomized to either suprapubic or intermittent catheterization post-surgery.
• Outcomes measured included length of hospital stay, time to normal voiding, urinary tract infections (UTIs), costs, and patient experience.

Main Results:

• 72 women completed the study (36 per group).
• Intermittent catheterization was associated with a significantly shorter hospital stay and duration of catheterization.
• No significant difference in the rate of UTIs was found between the groups.

Conclusions:

• Intermittent catheterization offers advantages in terms of faster recovery of normal micturition and reduced hospital stay after urogynaecological surgery.
• While the clinical significance may be limited, intermittent catheterization appears to be a favorable option for bladder management in this patient population.