A randomized clinical trial to compare immediate versus delayed removal of foley catheter following abdominal hysterectomy and laparotomy

Abstract

Objective: Indwelling urinary catheters are frequently used after surgery to prevent urinary retention. There is controversy about the ideal time to remove the catheter after surgery. This study compares the early and late Foley catheter removal following hysterectomy and laparotomy.

Methodology: In a clinical trial, 200 women candidate for hysterectomy or laparotomy were randomized to early removal of Foley catheter immediately or 24 hours after surgery. Early and late outcomes such as pain, fever, symptomatic urinary tract infection (UTI), the rate of re-catheterization and patients’ satisfaction were compared in two groups.

Results: There were no significant differences between two groups in symptomatic UTI, re-catheterization rate and reinsertion of Foley catheter. The mean time of hospital stay were lower in the early removal group (P < 0.05). The patients were more satisfied when the catheter was removed early.

Conclusion: Immediate removal of Foley catheter seems to be more beneficial and satisfying for the patients than delayed removal.