The effects of early removal of indwelling urinary catheter after radical hysterectomy

Radical hysterectomy has long been a primary mode of therapy for selected gynecologic malignancies. The lower urinary tract is an area associated with complications following this procedure. Lack of satisfactory reflex micturition and urinary retention, diminished bladder sensation, infection, and fistula formation are common adverse sequelae. Prolonged indwelling catheterization is a cornerstone of postoperative management after radical hysterectomy. An alternative regimen consisting of early postoperative catheter removal, with a strict voiding schedule, and intermittent self-catheterization (ISC) for postvoid residuals (PVR) was prospectively investigated. Intermittent self-catheterization was initiated only if the PVR 12 hr after catheter removal was greater than 75 ml. Twenty-six patients who underwent radical hysterectomy were studied. Catheters were removed between the fifth and ninth postoperative day. Eighteen patients (69%) had PVRs less than 75 ml at 12 hr and were successfully managed with a strict voiding schedule only. Eight patients (31%) had 12-hr PVRs greater than 75 ml and were managed with a strict voiding schedule and ISC until the PVR was less than 75 ml for two consecutive voids. These patients were evaluated with fluorourodynamics and none had an abnormal study. Compared to 25 historical control patients, study group median indwelling catheter duration was less (6.0 days compared to 30.0 days) with no increase in postoperative complications. On the basis of these data, early removal of indwelling urinary catheters after radical hysterectomy appears to be an acceptable alternative to long-term catheterization.