Early removal of catheter after transurethral prostatectomy

A prospective study of 100 patients with benign prostatic hypertrophy treated by transurethral prostatectomy with catheter removal as soon as possible after surgery was carried out. The results were compared with a retrospective review of 100 similar cases treated by long-term catheter drainage. Incidence of retention requiring recatheterization was equal (5 per cent versus 6 per cent); incidence of secondary hemorrhage was increased by early catheter removal (6 per cent versus 13 per cent); postoperative hospital stay was decreased by 50 per cent (8.2 versus 4.0 days); and patient comfort and acceptance were improved markedly.