Does catheter traction reduce post-transurethral resection of the prostate blood loss?

To determine if traction on a catheter after transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) reduces post-operative bleeding.

This prospective trial included 115 consecutive patients undergoing TURP. After resection patients were randomly selected to have either traction (57) or no traction (58) on the catheter for 30 min. Blood loss was measured during and for 2 h after the operation. A simple method for applying constant traction is described.

Catheter traction reduced post-operative bleeding while applied, but had no further effect after the removal of traction.

Catheter traction is a useful technique to aid the control of post-TURP bleeding.