Patient Removal of Catheters After Urogynecologic Surgery

Patient Removal of Urinary Catheters After Urogynecologic Surgery: A Randomized Non-Inferiority Trial

Management of postoperative urinary retention often requires the use of indwelling catheters. The purpose of this study is to see if patient removal of catheters at home is non-inferior to standard office removal.

Voiding trials are a routine part of Urogynecologic surgery. Management of postoperative urinary retention often requires the use of indwelling catheters. However, patients often view the need for catheters as the worst part of their surgical experience, and follow-up voiding trials in the office utilize excess healthcare resources. Many Urology practices allow patient removal of catheters after procedures, though this has not been formally studied. The purpose of this study is to see if patient removal of catheters at home is non-inferior to standard office removal.

Inclusion Criteria:

• All women undergoing prolapse or anti-incontinence surgery who fail their voiding trials prior to discharge
• 18+ years old

Exclusion Criteria:

• Non-English speaking
• Pregnant
• Elevated PVR (>150 mL) or dependent upon catheterization to void pre-operatively
• Urethral bulking injection surgery
• Intra-operative complication requiring prolonged catheterization
• Unable or unwilling to remove catheter at home